Two Wheels
February 04, 2010
I was recently perusing norco.com and took notice to the changes on the team section. Over the years the it has evolved more than I could ever have imagined. The Factory Team program has been around for decades and started as a primarily BMX team. From one end to the other, it later became an XC race team. Through the teams lifespan, it has moved on to incorporate nearly every discipline of cycling imaginable.
Viewing the spectrum of team riders they really do range from one extreme to the other. We still have National level XC riders like Andrew Watson and Catherine Vipond to go duke it out for those hard earned medals. We also have trials superstar Ryan Leech on the team wowing fans around the world. In DH and 4X, Norco team riders include Fionn Griffiths, Bernard Kerr, Nick Geddes, and most recently our support to the DIRT-UK boys Ben Reid and Dan Stanbridge. Over the past 10+ years Freeride and Slopestyle came into the picture and in this area we support founders and young rippers such as Jay Hoots, Darcy Turenne, Mislav Mironovic and most recently Sam Dueck. There are also some riders out there that defy all convention such as jack-of-all trades Dylan Korba.
This broad range of riders already seems massive but there is more. On the road side of things, the H&R Block Team is competing in road, TT and track on their Norco bikes. Last but definitely not least is BMX. In 2010 the Norco team welcomes extremely talented riders Ben Kaufmann and James van de Kamp. These two are capable of insane stunts that I wouldn’t even consider on a 6-8” travel bike – never mind on a 20” bike.
The diversification of cycling in past years has called for this variety of disciplines being part of the team. We can only imagine where the sport will be down the line. I’m just hoping that there isn’t a new Fixie team on the horizon. But, I guess those guys are so counter culture that they wouldn’t accept any support from us anyway. Yup, just say NO to the man.
In a nutshell this was a way to introduce the 2010 team. Better than ever, the team goes to show that it doesn’t matter what you are riding, as long as you are out there. If my count is correct, this year we have something like 154 different models of bikes in 29 separate categories. This just goes to show that we are all out there enjoying this crazy-good sport, and hopefully not being close minded enough to realize that whether you are on 20” or a 29’er, a skinny or fat tired beast, that 2 wheels = 2 wheels. The key is get out there and have some fun.
So, whadya say we all just get out there and play this year. Respect the others doing the same thing on their bikes… heck even give em a wave or a nod as you are out doing your thing. Tailwinds help us all, let’s enjoy and share them.
Steak Sauce
Commuting in an Olympic City – All the more reason to ride a bike.
February 04, 2010
From across the globe, the city of Vancouver is soon to be placed on a pedestal held up on the shoulders of the Olympic Games. Norco Headquarters is located just outside of Vancouver BC, right next to the excitement. Having such a large event seems from a distance like a glamorous gig. Millions of dollars pouring into tourism, the attention of international media, and showing off the natural beauty of Vancouver that we take for granted every day.
The other side of the Olympic coin is a little darker though. During the month of February a large portion of Vancouver streets will be shut down to traffic making way for Olympic festivities. Diverting these cars off certain major roads means that other, already over capacity routes will be pushed to the breaking point. Needless to say there are a significant number of people that are dreading the possibility of hours in traffic, impossible parking and general traffic apocalypse.
As frustrating as this state of chaos may be, there is another option… If it has never before looked appetizing, now really is a great time to ride a bike. The fact of the matter is that in all this automotive mess the riding paths, side roads and bicycle friendly streets will remain largely unaffected. Not only is riding in the city as fast as ever, in most cases it will likely reduce commute times. Now, I realize that not everyone lives in Vancouver and not everyone is affected by the Olympics but, how much longer does it really take to ride your bike to your work? For me, it is about 15 minutes… That is nothing! Take a minute and think about it for yourself. If you were to start riding to work or school, how much longer would it take? More importantly, how much better would you feel? You would save money, reduce pollution, be more fit and if you are anything like me - you will be charged with energy.
Now to get out and ride, it is the best way.
Dustan
Fixing a flat without a spare tube
February 04, 2010
It doesn't happen often but every once in a while I will admit I get caught on the trail without a tube. Not because I didn't have one, but because I either gave it away or flatted more than once on a ride. I am slightly ashamed to have admitted this but yes, it does happen. This past weekend I went out riding in Port Moody BC with a friend and it happened to be one of those rides. After Eric flatted once, I followed suit. That was no biggie as we both had a tube, but then Eric tried for round two. Three flats, two tubes, 0 patches.
As Eric got ready to start hiking I made a suggestion, one that is simple, easy and quite effective. Tie a knot in the tube and ride out. That is right, this trick is super simple and low tech but can be the difference between a long hike and finishing a great ride.
To fix this flat, you will need to start by finding the hole. Once you do, tie a knot with the hole at the end which is tucked through the knot loop. Pull the knot nice and tight to be sure that it won't come undone once inflated.
You will see that the tube is significantly smaller in diameter now that it has been tied. You will need to insert the valve, then stretch the tube around the rim before attempting to seat the tire.
Once you get the tube around the rim you can start to work the tire onto the rim. You should be careful that the last bit you are trying to seat is not at the knot as this area has significantly more bulk around it and could be difficult to work with.
Now that the tire is on, you can re-inflate.I wouldn't suggest inflating to more than 40psi as the tube is significantly stretched and fatigued. This is not a long term fix but should be enough to get you home. Once you start riding you will likely feel the knot as a bump in your tire. It may be a little rough but it sure beats walking.
If you have your doubts, give it a try.
Dustan
