Thursday, February 2, 2012
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
2012 Cervelo P5

Wednesday, December 7, 2011
2012 Time Trial Racing Calendar in Southern California

- Jan 08 Piru 20k TT
- Jan 29 Toms Farms 8m TT
- Feb 05 Piru 20k TT
- Feb 05 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Feb 12 POLA 10.5m TT
- Feb 25 UC Irvine TT
- Mar 04 Piru 20k TT
- Mar 04 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Mar 09 TDM Omnium TT
- Mar 17 Santiago Cyn 11m TT
- Mar 25 POLA 10.5m TT
- Mar 31 Piru 40k TT
- Mar 31 SCNCA SM ITT Chps
- Apr 01 Piru 20k TT
- Apr 08 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Apr 21 Santiago Cyn 11m TT
- May 05 Piru 40k TT
- May 06 Piru 20k TT
- May 12 SCNCA ITT Chps
- May 13 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- May 17 ATOC TT
- May 26 SCNCA TTT Chps
- Jun 02 Piru 40k TT
- Jun 03 Piru 20k TT
- Jun 30 Piru 40k TT
- Jul 01 Piru 20k TT
- Aug 04 Piru 40k TT
- Aug 05 Piru 20k TT
- Sep 08 Piru 20k TT
- Sep 08 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Sep 09 Piru 40k TT
- Sep 09 Fiesta Island 40k TTT
- Sep 16 Toms Farms 8m TT
- Oct 07 Piru 20k TT
- Oct 14 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Oct 14 Toms Farms 8m TT
- Oct 20 Santiago Cyn 11m TT
- Nov 04 Piru 20k TT
- Nov 17 Santiago Cyn 11m TT
- Nov 22 Toms Farms 8m TT
- Nov 23 Fiesta Island 20k TT
- Dec 02 Piru 20k TT
- Dec 09 Toms Farms 8m TT
Friday, December 2, 2011
40 SoCal area TT races on the calendar in 2012! Wow!

Saturday, November 12, 2011
Santiago Cyn TT update for 11/12/11
Monday, October 31, 2011
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Pacing a Time Trial using Power and Perceived Exertion

Saturday, August 20, 2011
40 Minute Time Trial Warm-up

by Gary Tingley -
I have used the same warm-up protocol for the past several years with success. The key is to properly prepare for the race while remaining rested, relaxed, and by staying cool. The warm-up is 40 minutes total, completed on a trainer or on rollers.
- 20 minutes easy spin, slowly raising cadence to 100 rpm, and include a few 5 second high-cadence bursts, then
- 1x4 minutes @ 90%/95%/100% of FTP w/2 minutes easy spin between intervals 1-2, 2-3, then after interval 3
- 4 minutes easy spin
Roll over to the start area with 10 minutes to go.

Faster Time Trial Turnarounds
by Gary Tingley -"Every second counts" and efficient time trial turnarounds can lead to quicker TT times. Practicing turnarounds can also lead to more confident bike handling. In the off season I practice the following routine on a closed street with a road cone. I've found that the fastest way to navigate a turnaround is to
- Approach the turnaround as far to the right of the course as you can ride
- Keep your speed up until the very last moment
- Shift up two or three cogs, then sit up and get on the brake hoods
- Brake, pass the cone by one meter, look over your left shoulder, then begin to corner
- Scrub just enough speed to corner and take a tight line with the cone on your left
- Sprint back up to speed, out of the saddle
- Get back up to speed quickly and then get back into the aerobars
- Shift down and quickly settle into your TT pace
Faster Triathlon Bike Splits Through Time Trial Racing

The bike leg of triathlon and duathlon is essentially a time trial race sandwiched in between swimming and running. You will find subtle differences in training for a true time trial race, such as frequency, duration, and other TT specific workouts.
Here are a few tips for your first time trial:
* If preparing for an upcoming event, use the race as training, race the time trial using all equipment you will have with you during a tri - spares and water - this way you "train like you race".
* Wear a jersey that covers your shoulders, many USCF races require this.
* You may be required to purchase a 1-day license at the event.
* Warm up for the race for at least 45 minutes incorporating 'step' intervals that prepare your body for high race efforts. Consume some CHO drink.
* At the starting line a 'holder' will hold your bike saddle (at most events) and allow you to clip in to your pedals. Start your stopwatch when the rider in front of you goes off - then subtract the time difference when you finish (depending on the race, usually 30 seconds).
* You will want to start the race on your non-primary leg (your weaker leg) which will allow you to power a full revolution of your more powerful leg once you start the event. Make sure you are in the correct gear, spin your cranks forward and backward before you line up to make certain that your chain will not drop. Take a few deep breaths right before the start, then when the official says "GO!" (on the basebar) shift your weight forward and push hard, sprint up to speed (10 seconds) and settle into your pace.
* Don't worry about keeping a set heart rate or power during the first five minutes of the race, instead try to maintain a pace just under your 1-hour race effort. After the first five minutes you will want to hold your power or heart rate just below or right at your 1-hour threshold power/pace, then bump it up and really give it your all in the last 1/3 of the race. Focus on finishing strong.
* Depending on the course profile, finish the race with the same power and a higher perceived intensity that you started it with, but have nothing left to give at the end of the event. If the profile is hilly, you will want to push a little harder on the climbs.
* Properly warm down and stretch to prevent injuries. Hydrate and get some CHO drink into your system.
Time trial racing is one of the best ways to improve your bike split. You already have the bike and the fitness, all you need to do is show up and race a TT!
Top-10 Cycling Recovery Tips

by Gary Tingley -
Recovery is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects of a well rounded training program for the competitive cyclist. Day and day out training, work, home, and life stresses can increase the fatigue that a rider experiences throughout the day, and can minimize the effectiveness of the workouts performed. To realize the most of your training program, effective recovery techniques can lessen the stresses of daily life and can help to prepare you for the next day's workout.
Compression clothing can help office workers, travelers, and those who spend considerable amounts of time standing throughout the day. Mid-day stretching and "sunshine breaks" can also assist with reducing stress in the workplace. A healthy diet and ample vitamin supplementation are important foundations for a sound training program.
1. Nutrition – replace glycogen with a sports drink within 30mins-2hrs post ride at the rate of 1.5g carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight per hour for up to 4 hours. I prefer a bottle of Fluid, a Coke or bottle of Cytomax.2. Clean up – shower, or after a race/training ride where I cannot immediately shower, I’ll use a few baby wipes to clean up.3. Baby powder – keeps things dry.4. Nap – a short 20-30min lunchtime/afternoon nap can be beneficial.5. Stretching – improves mobility, flexibility, eliminates stiffness.6. Massage and Compression socks – massage is worth it if you need work done. Also, “the Stick” and Foam roller work well.7. Ice – if I am feeling particularly sore, I’ll ice my joints and/or muscles immediately after a ride.8. Hydrotherapy – a warm bath can work wonders for a sore body (however, not immediately following a workout).9. NSAIDS – Advil/etc. can help with pain, but use sparingly and as directed by your doctor, stomach ulcers and other risks are involved.10. Sleep – aim for 8 hours per night, no more than 9, no less than 7.5 ~

Time Trial Pre Race Day Prep

by Gary Tingley -
It's the day before the big event, and you are wondering "should I take it easy today?" Yes, absolutely. One of the most important race preparation elements is relaxation. You should arrive at the event relaxed and prepared to give your best effort.
How to best prepare yourself depends on where you are starting from and the type of event you are competing in. There are a few basic preparation tasks that I use for time trial races (can also be used for triathlon):
1. Prep ride warm up. I'll use the same 40 minute warm-up the day before the event as I do on race day, and if I can I will ride the actual race course. The goal here is to blow out the cobwebs while staying relaxed and fresh.
2. Confidence and mental rehearsal. If this is a new course, or a championship event, completing a pre ride the day before on the actual course will give you confidence to corner at the maximum possible speed, and will allow you to observe the course profile and any potential hazards. Practice mental rehearsal of a strong start, smooth turnaround, and solid finish. Visualize yourself pedaling smoothly with relaxed breathing.
3. Nutrition and sleep. I tend to keep nutrition simple and stick to my normal diet. I will not restrict calories the day before a race and I tend to avoid heavy foods that may cause digestive problems. Since many events begin in the morning, it is important to turn in early to prevent unnecessary fatigue. I strive to get 7.5 to 8 hours of sleep the night before the event.
These are but a few of the numerous little items that truly add up on race day. The goal is to line up the day of the event in the most rested and best prepared condition possible.
Aerodynamics for Time Trial Racing
by Gary Tingley -
My first time trial was ten years ago at a Fiesta Island TT. I rode a Specialized M4 road bike with Spinergy Rev-X wheels and clip on aerobars. Coming from a cross-country mountain bike background, and having dabbled in multisport events the previous year, I assumed that racing and training for a time trial would be "easy" compared to MTB events. I quickly learned that the sport of time trial racing is highly technical, and it can take years to develop optimal fitness and the skills needed to excel in this discipline. In the following article, I will discuss some of the finer points of basic time trial aerodynamics I have picked up along the way, and the priorities one should consider when upgrading equipment.I often get asked the question about where to invest upgrade dollars when considering new equipment and gear. From results others have shared with me, my time in the wind tunnel observing athletes, and the various data reports that I have read, I will offer the following list of priorities for a time trial bicycle and the rider. This evaluation is fully debatable and represents only my opinion. The results below were gained from various sources and in most cases represent a rider at 30MPH at zero degree yaw over a 40K course.
** Maximum time savings for these upgrades over 40K:
Handlebars (Reference: J Cobb, Vision Tech)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| Drop Bars | Integrated Aerobars | 2 - 4 Minutes |
| Drops/clip-ons | Integrated Aerobars | 15 secs - 1 Minute |
Clothing (Reference: Rainer Pivit)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| Shorts & Jersey | Skin Suit | 29 seconds |
| --- | Add Shoe Covers | 13 Seconds |
Wheels (Reference: J Cobb)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| "Box Style" 32 spoke wheels | Deep front/disc rear | 2 - 3 Minutes |
| Deep front/rear | Deep front/disc rear | 30 Seconds |
Frame (Reference: J Cobb, Martin/Cervelo)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| Round tubing | Airfoil chainstays, down/seat tube & post | 30 secs - 2 Minutes |
Fork (Reference: Oval Concepts, J Cobb, D Bunce)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| Round tube fork | Oval Jetstream | 35 seconds |
| Round tube fork | Ouzo Pro Aero | 30 seconds |
| Round tube fork | Hotta | 30 seconds |
Helmet (Reference: J Cobb)
| From: | To: | Savings: |
| Standard road helmet | L.G. Prologue | 30 seconds |
| Standard road helmet | Standard road helmet, tape over vents | 10 - 30 seconds |
Aero Wheels - Using aero wheels (vs. 32 spoke box rim wheels) can save you two minutes over a 40K time trial. The fastest wheels are a deep dish front (Zipp 1080, Zipp 808, Stinger 9, HED H3) paired with a disc rear (Zipp, Bontrager, Mavic, HED). Aero wheels definitely make a substantial difference in reducing aerodynamic drag. When deciding which wheels to purchase, HED makes a yaw calculator and Zipp has aero test results to help you in your decision.
Aerobars - Aerobars are the #1 most important feature of any time trial bicycle. Integrated one-piece aerobars are more aerodynamic than clip on bars. Wind tunnel tests show that using aerobars can save 4 minutes over a 40K time trial course. Currently there is an abundance of aerobars on the market, and the fastest aerobars carry the labels of Profile Design, Zipp, Bontrager, HED and Vision Tech. These new one-piece units are some of the best designed and likely the most aerodynamic aerobars made today. For clip on aerobars, the classic Syntace C2 (a triathlon favorite) has been moved aside by Zipp and Vision Tech base bar and clip on bar systems.
Aero Frames - Many frames on the market claim to be aero. The most important feature that a frame can offer you is the fit, followed by aerodynamics, stiffness and comfort. Many new aero frames are designed around UCI rules. This requires a double-diamond design, and 3:1 tubing aspect ratio. If racing national championship events you should consider a UCI legal frameset. Frame aerodynamics are important, however fit is even more so. When selecting a frame, fit and comfort are paramount considerations. How do you know if the frame you are considering is aero? Start with the tubeshapes of the bicycle. Are the tubes airfoil shaped? Is the downtube narrow and deep? Is there a closely spaced rear wheel cut-out? Aero seatpost? These are some items to consider. Some of the top companies today that produce aero time trial frames are (in no particular order) Specialized, Cervelo, Trek, Orbea, Kestrel, Felt, Softride, Corima, Lotus, Elite, Quintana Roo, Aegis, Pinarello and Colnago.
Conclusion – Aerodynamic gear does not come cheap, so keep these two points in mind when considering upgrading your equipment:
- Buy the fastest gear you can afford, but remember that position on the bike is paramount to anything you bolt onto it
- Buy an aero helmet first, then a skinsuit, then upgrade your wheels, then the frame
Gary Tingley is a USA Cycling Certified Level 2 / CPBT Power-based Training Coach, former Senior Cycling Coach for Joe Freil's TrainingBible Coaching, Spinning/Madd Dog/Schwinn certified indoor cycling instructor, 6x Calif state Time Trial Champion (ITT/TTT), 2x USAC Masters Road Nationals medalist, and USCF road Cat. 2 cyclist.
Wind Tunnel Aero Test Results for Time Trial Helmets and Hand Positions

- Lower profile helmets are more aerodynamic
- Shape matters, the helmet should transition to the rider's back as seamlessly as possible
- Visors were not tested - may or may not have an impact
- "Filled" tails were not tested - again, may have an impact especially for tails that sit up off the back
- All three hand positions are fairly close in terms of aerodynamics
- Gloves were not tested, however if gloves were to be worn, a low profile set such as the aero versions from Castelli or Nike should be considered
- Smaller hand profiles are important
How to Calculate your Aerodynamic Drag using a Power Meter

- http://www.analyticcycling.com/ForcesPower_Page.html
- http://www.unitjuggler.com/speed-conversion.html (convert mph or kph to m/s)
- http://www.wunderground.com/weatherstation/index.asp (wind/air pressure)
.44 frontal area [.440m^2 x 0.5 = .220m^2 of CdA]83kg rider and bike Slope – 0.0015, crr 0.004, 12.69 m/s – 332w – 26:15 for 20k+ 5 secs first lap = 26:20.44 frontal area [.440m^2 x 0.5 = .220m^2 of CdA]83kg rider and bike Slope – 0.0015, crr 0.004, 12.82 m/s – 341w – 26:00 for 20k+ 5 secs first lap = 26:05
Friday, August 5, 2011
USA Cycling National Time Trial Calendar
http://www.usacycling.org/nttc/
http://usacycling.org/...er/story.php?id=6466
http://www.usacycling.org/...er/story.php?id=6418
http://www.bicycle.net/...-time-trial-calendar
USA Cycling Initiates National Time Trial Calendar
Colorado Springs, Colo. (May 20, 2011) — USA Cycling is excited to introduce the new National Time Trial Calendar, designed to highlight the nation’s premier races against the clock.
The individual time trial has long been a core aspect of the sport of cycling, and USA Cycling aims to promote the growth of the already strong cycling base in the United States by assembling a calendar showcasing the country’s foremost time trials. USA Cycling hopes to encourage a variety of participation levels while offering top time trial specialists an opportunity to test their stamina against the country’s best.
The inaugural calendar opens with the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic Time Trial in Durango, Colo., on May 28. It continues until Sept. 4, with the Record Challenge Time Trial in Moriarty, N.M., with stops in Philipsburg, Mont. (July 2), and Bend, Ore. (Aug. 31), including the Juniors/U23/Elite Road National Championships Time Trial in Augusta, Ga., on June 23.
At the end of the five events, overall calendar champions will be named for men and women in each age group.
“Our aim is to encourage the introduction of new riders to the sport by presenting them with the opportunity to pursue a championship-caliber time trial calendar as they progress,” USA Cycling National Events Manager Tony Leko said. “We hope to build upon the enthusiasm and competitiveness among age-groupers in the next few years.”
USA Cycling will begin taking applications for the 2012 National Time Trial Calendar in late summer, 2011. Further details, including scoring, legal equipment, specific dates and locations for events can be found on the USA Cycling National Time Trial Calendar page.
USA CYCLING NATIONAL TIME TRIAL CALENDAR
- Iron Horse Bicycle Classic Time Trial May 28 Durango, Colo.
- Juniors/U23/Elite Road National Championships Time Trial June 23 Augusta, Ga. (ages 10-29)
- Blazing Saddles Time Trial July 2 Philipsburg, Mont.
- Masters Road National Championships Time Trial Aug. 31 Bend, Ore. (ages 30-75+)
- Record Challenge Time Trial Sept. 4 Moriarty, N.M.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
2012 Specialized Shiv
- For UCI time trials or any race against the clock, this FACT IS 11r carbon frame features a fully integrated cockpit and radical tube shaping for the ultimate optimization of aerodynamics, stiffness, and weight
- Super-stiff and light, UCI-legal, S-Works FACT carbon monocoque fork is incredibly aerodynamic for the fastest ride on the planet
- Specialized S-Works FACT carbon crankset with OSBB, removable carbon spider, and ceramic bearings has incredible stiffness-to-weight for max power
- Aerodynamic carbon stem integrates with the aerobar to provide a stiff and light link to the fork steerer
- S-Works FACT carbon integrated handlebar/aero bar is UCI-legal and offers 0-115mm height adjustment for best performance and comfort in aero position
- S-Works FACT carbon bladed seatpost is UCI-legal, and incredibly aerodynamic and stiff; two
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
GERARD VROOMEN - Co-Founder of Cervelo

[reposted]
http://gerard.cc/2011/06/28/aero-claim-buster
GERARD VROOMEN - Co-Founder of Cervelo
Consumers often complain they can’t verify aero claims made by manufacturers. True, unless you have a windtunnel in your backyard.
But you can use the laws of probability and common sense to set the minimum level by which a bike manufacturer would lie about its models’ aerodynamics. Here is now:
Bike manufacturers make claims on weight and on aerodynamics.
The first you can verify, the second you can not.
Therefore I would venture that they will be no more honest about their aero claims than they will be about their weight claims.
Makes sense, doesn’t it? If they lie 10% about a claim you can verify, do you really expect them to lie less about a claim you can’t check? So get out those scales and go weigh some aerodynamics!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 Rock N' Road Cyclery SoCal TT Series Schedule
#1 09/11/11 Fiesta Island
#2 09/18/11 Toms Farms
#3 10/02/11 Piru
#4 10/08/11 Santiago Cyn
#5 10/09/11 Fiesta Island
#6 10/16/11 Toms Farms
#7 11/6/11 Piru
#8 11/12/11 Santiago Cyn
#9 11/24/11 Toms Farms
#10 11/25/11 Fiesta Island
SPRING 2012 SERIES
#1 02/00/12 Fiesta Island
#2 03/00/12 Santiago Cyn
#3 03/00/12 Fiesta Island
#4 03/00/12 POLA
#5 04/00/12 Piru
#6 04/00/12 Fiesta Island
#7 04/00/12 Santiago Cyn
#8 04/00/12 POLA
#9 05/00/12 Piru
#10 05/00/12 Fiesta Island


