Why is EVERYONE Leaving GIRONA (WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON?)

[@cervelo66]

As a citizen of Girona and a cyclist, the main points to address are essentially two: the lack of integration of the vast majority of foreigners who spend long periods of time living in Girona (if it is not already their permanent residence), and the general increase in housing and consumer goods prices. I know several cases of people from North America and Australia who have been living in Girona for more than six years and are unable to communicate in any language other than English. It seems as if they are not interested in learning anything about the local culture or integrating into Catalan society. They are not really contributing much to the local residents of Girona; on the contrary, they are bringing more problems than benefits to the average Girona's citizen.

[@Frostbiker]

Don't forget that they call themselves "expats", not "immigrants", so it is okay if they don't bother learning the local languages and customs. Because only poor desperate people are immigrants, such as Spaniards living abroad, and those undesirables are the people who must integrate. I should know, I've been an immigrant for twenty years.

[@DR_1_1]

I wanted to joke that they behave the same everywhere (including in their own countries when they first came!), so maybe you're better off if they don't "integrate"! But seriously, Catalan is not easy to learn. My mother came there at 14, managed to learn both Spanish and Catalan, but when I visited this area, I couldn't understand anything except when there is a Spanish translation too (I'm French speaking, so some Latin words are familiar)...

[@fabri7]

@@DR_1_1if you can speak spanish and french, you do understand català. It is not that different. In the other hand, everyone speak spanish as well. It is very disrespectful not to learn the language of the country you’re living in.

[@DR_1_1]

@@fabri7 To me Catalan is very different than French and Spanish, most numbers, days of the week etc. Grammar is also more complex than Castillan. I don't live there, so I never had to learn either Spanish or Catalan, yet sometimes I wish my mother would have taught me both... as kid I could hear her speak Catalan with friends on a few occasions, and it sounded like a magic language to me (because I couldn't understand anythung, unlike Spanish) but I was born in a French area, and my father was speaking German, both took the decision to only speak French with us... I could be almost fluent in 5 languages, instead of only 1-2...

[@nathanmitchell4146]

I live in Girona, and I am expat, and with due respect to Anthony who is clearly defending the pros consistently, I have seen some of the most obnoxious behaviour from the pros. The going the wrong way ruling I see at least 3-4times a week not adhered to by pros, or what I deem 'amateur pros', you know the ones, those juniors or 'development' riders or their friends who think they are top-draw importance, yet their not, and make it hard for ex-pats like me, who proudly call Girona home, and immerse and embrace the Catalan lifestyle. You get situations on the Pont de Pedra where there's 20, 25, 30 of these 'amateur pros all 'mingling' before a group ride, yet taking up the entire width of the bridge, and locals can't even walk across, where is the common courtesy to others? Show some respect to locals, get over your own self-importance. 9/10ths of these 'amateur pros' don't live in Girona, they are there for short training periods, yet think their shit doesn't stink and treat the place like we need to fawn over them and their kings or queens of the castle. Someone needs to advise this lot, that they may think their someone in their world, but be assured, their not in the vast majority of ours.

[@nathanmitchell4146]

I forgot to add, Girona is the best, the most wonderful place across the board for cycling/cycling lifestyle. Come here, enjoy it, but garner some understanding of how things work, and overall, show respect to the local community, and for their beautiful city the love.

[@Mi7cro]

I think you need to actually talk to some Catalans and you’ll see that ALL expats are a problem because WE are the ones driving the prices up and most expats in Girona don’t speak a word of Spanish let alone Catalan, so have a look at the bigger problematic at hand, if your US/Canadian/UK/Aus the chances of finding your feet in town are a lot bigger because the community is bigger but it is also hella clicky take it from someone who also lived there for the last 3 years, the average Catalan makes maybe 1200-1500max where as the average expat is usually well above that average, so again I ask how are you not surprised that Catalans will be pissed off? It’s a bigger problem because local people can’t afford to live in Girona anymore, and it’s all because of expats who push the prices up, I agree cyclists in town caused a lot of problems but cyclists them selfs make jack shit compared to tech and finance bros who started moving into Girona, unless your a world tour rider the chances of you having a decent paycheque are slim to none, look at it objectively it’s a bigger problematic

[@neca12]

just listen to the guys pronouncing it Catalownian

[@Popcorn_Rider]

Can you please add bookmarks?

[@rw3220]

On my recent visit I was disgusted by the amount litter (gel and bar wrappers) scattered around some of Girona's famous climbs. If i was a local that would certainly turn me against tourist and expat riders

[@reflectionsdetail]

I've been to Girona a few times, and have ridden around with Marty Jemison who is the OG of the area for cyclists. The area has def changed since the first days of his time there, roads are now paved, infrastructure is much better. I love riding in the area, I love running into pros and chatting it up for a few miles, I love supporting locals, Catalan is a Hard lang, but locals have a good time with me trying to say things correctly. Like all places just respect the locals home.

[@CycoWarriorx]

I dunno… I was in Girona in October for 1.5 weeks… if the massive number of cyclists that were on the roads, camped out in front of cafes, or riding up/down the mountains (Rocacorba in nearby Banyoles) was an indication that Girona was dead/dying - uh ok… I’d still take it over (a lack of) the cycling culture in other cities/countries 24/7… so much so I’ve been researching moving there… 🍻

[@lcooperdesign]

I'm British, a cyclist, and live in Barcelona. I've cycled in and around Girona on many occasions and have even been stopped by a policeman for riding the wrong way (obliviously, not dismissively) up the streets. The problem I feel stems partly from the distinctiveness of Lycra-clad cyclists, on uber modern equipment zipping through historic streets. Combine that with the sound of cleats on stone and angry bees in every direction. Those are things that look and sound AMAZING to cyclists, but are very annoying to literally anyone else. For it to be tolerated it has to come with some good. We can't lean on the argument that it brings with it commerce and employment alone. Not everyone feels the benefit of that and besides identity matters. The community service idea is daft in a literal sense, but not the heart of the idea. At the moment cyclists are seen as takers, and if we were to pivot to giving something back in return that would be good for all involved. Some consideration can be given at the minimum. The issue with integration is no different than with any other cultural subset being introduced to one that pre-existed (I'm sure you can all think of examples back home)… pro cyclists and cycling tourists will naturally stick to what they know and who they know, but efforts should be made to break down those cliques, by both parties for the benefit of both parties. The team management have a big responsibility here, and so do the famous cycling themed coffee shops. It wouldn't take much for La Fabrica and Eat Sleep Cycle to put up posters encouraging correct and considerate use of the streets, or alternative ways out of the of the city. I would have appreciated a "watch out, the roads are one way and getting it wrong is fineable" message on the coaster under my beer!

[@egorant]

💯👍 🙏

[@HeartShapedBox93]

I live in Girona. Seems to be thriving to me. More of a gravel and running scene now, perhaps, but it seems fine to me.

[@gearoiddom]

I’m Irish but m’agrada molt la lengua catalana.

[@williamroberts6937]

I think you're missing the point about Phil Gaimon- he's KOM hunting for his KZbin channel Worst Retirement Ever, not a pro peloton place, and freely admits that he's past his prime. He runs some great Fondos including one in the Alabama Hills in California (the Whiskey Tango Fondo....gettit???)

[@cormacatcyclesierranevada1451]

Why would you go were you're not welcome? It seems they have been victims of their own success. We run a cycling company in a small village in Andalusia, only 1 hour from Malaga, but very little tourism and an area that's suffering from Rural depopulation. It's an area that has never experienced the tourism surge of the Costa del Sol and the area isn't solely dependent on tourism. The cost of living is still pretty low compared to other touristic places in Spain, coffees are 1.20€, beers from 2€, tostadas 2.50€.

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Pop me an insta message

[@lydiagould3090]

I agree. I'm not interested in going to Girona. Last November I went to Fuerteventura for the 2nd time and did an event there. Everyone was friendly and I felt welcome as a tourist. But unfortunately overtourism could still become a problem for local people, just as it has done in Tenerife and Malaga etc .

[@Asaya911]

thank you for this

[@rayF4rio]

I have 2 bikes: Campy Mechanical and Sram AXS. And yes, I find my right thumb making ghost shifts sometimes on the Sram set up. But it's not really an issue.

[@Bear-Jew]

I am watching your video for the first time ever. Too many sneaky adverts. Stopped watching the very moment you commented on a hydration pack. Not looking cool? What are you? 5 years old? "Road cycling snobbery" is discouraging for many. What is it? A catwalk now? Style over hydration? Very bad advice, in my opinion. If people you are riding with are taking a mickey out of you for using a hydration pack, you should probably look for a different group to ride with.

[@Cyclinginmallorca]

such a great dynamic together. Great watch again....

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Thanks for tuning in. Love Mallorca 🥰

[@maadman117]

no short term apartment rentals (due to "anti AirBnB regulations") is a big negative. I was there last summer, and the Game of Thrones tourists heavily outnumbered the cyclists. We're heading back to Javea in February, where we rented a villa on AirBnB for a month. Plenty of places to ride, nice villas to stay in.....

[@escaparcc]

make sure you head inland to the Mariola park, Sierra Enguera, Font Roja, Biar if you want to do the big climbs!

[@Philatlondon1]

I'm just starting recovery from a fracture-dislocation of my glenoid, with a bankart lesion. I've been told to expect 6-9 months before the shoulder is strong enough to think about riding outside. I had no idea shoulder injuries were so complicated before suffering one. It won't surprise me at all if Remco misses a chunk of next season.

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Sorry to hear that, best of luck with the recovery

[@DDai-qd8uk]

Looking slick Ant! Keep the good work. Sarah, not bad.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

I think for professional athletes it is part of the job to mingle with the unwashed masses who want a selfie. Yes, even at breakfast unfortunately. Sports at the end of the day is entertainment as much as we want to deify athletes into warrior monks. If it weren't for the fans and selfie seekers there would be no interest from sponsors and no sponsors no money.

[@phoffen3829]

A. We love Girona, but we don't want you there with us. B. I am a rich and famous cyclist, but I don't like being seen. Reminds me of our ice hockey players who love the money and adulation in their home country of Canada, but hate being recognised, and hate the cold (!) so prefer the States to live. Can't have it both ways. C. This makes athletes look pretty stupid, which of course, many are (they are not amanzing at sports by being studious).

[@davidpankras1933]

You're right on the money, Russ. As far as today's pros go though, I wouldn't recognize any of them, even if they crashed into me. They are totally generic. Not like the days when Pantani and Ulrich were riding. I did, however, twice recognize you as you buzzed down Els Angels. Maybe there's hope that you'll get pestered at breakfast yet!

[@BevandEdMusic]

​@@davidpankras1933ahaha, back in my day...

[@adambrickley1119]

Cyclists should come to Languedoc high national park. Its a paradise for cycling, hills, few cars, and beautiful. You can virtually see Girona if you get home sick!

[@StuartBramley-l1q]

The unrest in Girona was aimed at the local government and major led by Junts per Cataluya, mostly the far left party CUP voters were agitating for their removal, ( they won again) both are pro independence. The main gripe from CUP was that JUNTS are pro business and commerce and ignore the issues of locals, ( they have a point) the tourism sector was used to highlight this 'supposed' lack of local support by JUNTS, Cycling being very visible GI bore the brunt of the political motivated angst. All is now chill and relaxed after the election. But visitors really need to learn a few Catalan phrases and respect local traditions and civic Pride. Catalonia is definitely not Spain.

[@jamesedwalsh]

great commentary re Kuss Vs Jack B

[@escaparcc]

Girona is a better gravel destination than road. The inland Valencia mountains has better weather, far fewer cars, better road surface, way more climbs and ride variety. It's much cheaper here too. We have a hire fleet of Carbon Topstone, Supersix Evo, Orbea and Monndraker MTB. We'll charge €200 for a week for a Topstone Carbon with AXS. It'll cost you €500-600 a week. And as for climbs - let's face, the Rocacorba is a bit crap. There's not much to see at the top, the surface isn't very good and the descent not much fun. I could name at least 50 better climbs in the Valencia region.

[@hilaleise6824]

port de barx is so nice

[@stan9636]

Girona and mallorca are great for Cycling but i can see a shift to the Costa Blanca

[@p504504]

CRAZY BEAUTIFUL FLAVOR GANG WHERE WE AT

[@garywebber3228]

i beg to differ on girona being the most popular for cyclists ! i live on the costa blanca denia calpe area !!?? this is THE place to train in the northern hemisphere ! 90% of pros cant be wrong

[@robbchastain3036]

So how fast and furious was Remco riding on public roads at the time? Or was he riding like a careful commuter? We all know that bikes can go too fast for conditions, especially ones powered by a top athlete paid millions for her performances. Open roads give us endless opportunities to open it up and fly, Robin, fly. But there are lots of times when it is high time to use those high-quality disc brakes and cool it. And why O why in training are not riders using body armor and lots of it.

[@oldanslo]

So true, I was in Girona the other day and the town was gutted! Shops were empty and the wind whistled through the shutters of homes and apartments. Complete GHOST TOWN!

[@dominicbritt]

Winter!

[@neca12]

@@dominicbritt he lies

[@jamesnoble2631]

It's off season, what do you expect

[@alfiepilkington6927]

Can you change the picture in the background for when mvdp done that spectacular push up the hill leaving everyone in the dust when he won the strade bianche please and I've got a big question how is watts per kg calculated is it done with all kit on minus bike or with no clothes on many thanks

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Have you seen a good version or painting of that mvp attack?

[@alfiepilkington6927]

@TheRoadmanPodcast only expensive ones online

[@retyred-44]

Feel free to send me the print on the wall - it’s awesome! (Or maybe you can point me to the artist - I can’t quite make it out). First time watcher (and Girona resident 🫣) - great job will subscribe

[@mejdrichj]

Whatever…. People should be respectful at home, on 5he road, 24/7. Whether you live in a place or visit it…. As it pertains to the pros, whatevs, don’t care…. Deal with it…. Better idea: let’s find more Girona-like places….

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

What’s top of your list for cycling destinations ?

[@mejdrichj]

@ Portugal, the Algarve…. Next, The Lakes region in Italy…. Third would be Tuscany…. Maybe the valley near Perugia…. Or near, further north - a lot - Verona…. I am sure there are tons of epic locales…. For me, a mix of gravel and road with good food and modern(ish) convenience…. Too old to be really adventurous…

[@StuartBramley-p1u]

The angst in Girona was politically motivated. Cyclist's tourism and tourism in general was used by CUP Party, to unseat the ruling junts per Catalunya Party, Junts won the election locally, equilibrium is restored.

[@escaparcc]

@@TheRoadmanPodcast Ontinyent, in inland Valencia, away from Calpe and Denia. Movistar are nearby this week. Come and do a podcast from here and meet some local Spanish pro guy and girls away from the expat coastal crowds. From Ontinyent there are major 7 climbs that start in the town alone :Port Portixol 8km, Ermita Sant Esteve 4.5, Port Bocairent 6km, Puerto Paller 8km, Port Fontanars, Pou Clar, Alt del Figerole all more than 10km. All better than the Rocacorba. There's even more gravel climbs. In the wide area, there's more than 100! Ride gravel, road, MTB, DH Bike park, Velodrome, pump track. Home to cycling brands like Gobik, Lurbel, Atika, GSports, Vestta (make lots of Decathlons stuff), Kenza, MQR, Bike companies nearby - Mondraker (Alicante), Wolf Bike, Berria (Albacete)

[@Check-it-out]

Been there. Girona is insanely overrated anyway. Good luck with your bikes on 100 kmh highways !

[@fearghalpattwell2218]

Hi there. Easy on the Campy bashing. I've been using it since the 80s. Wouldn't consider using anything else. Never an issue with it. Lasts for ages. Far prettier than the other two

[@bertmortier7678]

Like the show, but dislike the victim blaming.

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Victim is too broad a stroke, we’re talking about contributory negligence. No debate they are the victim but to what extent did there actions give rise to the incident. It’s normally not 0%

[@bertmortier7678]

@TheRoadmanPodcast but that's purely an assumption that he was negligent. It was in the middle of town, it's not likely he was going at breakneck speeds

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Yep I assumed he was more than 0% in the wrong, which in my experience is normally the case

[@bertmortier7678]

@TheRoadmanPodcast kind of a d*ck move to be honest. You can do better.

[@madplanet3351]

Everyone has an axe 🪓 to grind.

[@mikeeasey6815]

We did the Traka this year, and first night in town I said there is a strange vibe here. We had a Spaniard rideing with us who explained the graffiti, which was telling us to do one! A group of locals confronted us one night, and it was our Spanish mate that calmed the mood, but I was aware things were a bit "techey" there. I still love the place for riding so??

[@neca12]

Catalan*

[@ramongarcia6607]

Come to Asturias, we are poor, and we have the best uphills ……. We talk spanish

[@dickieblench5001]

Overrated for cycling IMO. To use a skiing comparison it's just greens and blues😢

[@chernobijl]

So …. Girona Ok for some but not the others

[@rjgriffiths1]

Roadies are missing a trick, best thing about gtown is the gravel

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

100%

[@9Bijo]

Jealous of not being able to run and swim, and also keeping 350w for 4 hours!!?? 😂😂😂

[@faustocoppi4072]

Girona only became a cyclist hub because it was easy to dope there, Maybe things are changing now.

[@bigwave_dave8468]

"Cyclists were like head lice" ? really? sounds pretty cynical -- The tourism/immigrant blow-back is not unique to Girona. Better to have a more thoughtful (and longer) discussion about what's going on with Spain's economy and Political situation and how that's affecting attitudes towards tourism and immigrants moving to Catalunya (Barcelona is suffering similar blow-back over tourism and skyrocketing housing costs).

[@sarahannegan4605]

it's just a turn of phrase used in Ireland 😂

[@yeyo9664]

Because Calpe is cheaper...

[@dosserkelly]

Anto your as cold as ice :)

[@out_spocken]

Doors are variable lengths 🤦🏻 id say stick to cycling but ...

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

Think you missed the negative “are not”

[@marcmetrobuen9887]

país vasco > girona

[@szilardp]

Shaming people for using using hydration packs? Telling cyclist to ride in the middle of the road to avoid the risk of getting doored by careless drivers? Roadie elitism and victim blaming: double lame. I hope get enough feedback to make you reflect and reconsider your dated views.

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

I hope you don’t wear a hydration pack on a group spin 😂

[@GummeeH3]

bleeding Shimano brakes is just about 'bang 2 rocks together' simple. SRAM/AVID? different story The only way that electronic derailleurs need 'adjusting' is when you've done something to them like bending the hanger or you've changed wheels/cassette

[@TheRoadmanPodcast]

You’ve empowered me, I’m going to try it

[@rayF4rio]

Even Sram is not that difficult. Just have to get comfortable with the syringes. It's all just practice.

[@mario.221]

Girona is for sure not the best place to ride your bike.

[@0xjdion]

Girona is overrated and dull as a city.

[@neca12]

Agreed, stay away

[@mettflow2648]

no bookmarks, not gonna watch