Trouble At Trek & Giant + Is Doping Rife In Amateur Racing? - The Wild Ones Podcast Ep.41

Check out the audio versions of the podcast here: podfollow.com/the-wild-ones/view
We're back with mechanic Nic! Here's the breakdown:
00:00 Our Geraint Thomas masterplan is working…
01:18 Current pros’ conduct has Lance Armstrong confused
08:16 Is doping rife in amateur racing?
16:29 Trek & Giant admit struggles
26:39 Will Mark Cavendish even make it to the Tour?
37:15 Overrated/Underrated: Downtubes & top tubes with built-in storage
40:17 Overrated/Underrated: Studded tires
42:23 Overrated/Underrated: Bar tape choice
44:54 Jimmi’s slacking and bikepacking chaos (FUPTW)
46:54 Tips for getting friends and family into cycling
52:08 ‘I’m cycling Alpe D’Huez 6 times in a day… do I need more gears?’
58:48 Send us your training questions!
If you’d like us to send in a question, story, some good news, things you’d like us to discuss or anything else, email us at [e-mail]
Thanks and see you next time.
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[@Ron_Boy]

I so love hearing Emily's perspective on things. Her comments are always insightful, and she gives everyone a more informed way of seeing -- and, yes, judging -- any given situation. Kudos to Emily.

[@christocan4710]

I have the strange feeling that the podcast gets more woke with every episode. It’s already at a level that feels uncomfortable for me personally. I know I don’t have to watch but I really like the people. That’s why I don’t understand why there is so much agenda towards certain things. That could also be described as „toxic“, a word that is often used and is not positive not even helpful criticism.

[@AFROPOLYMATH]

There are over 16000 Economics students at the University of South Africa and we are currently doing an assignment that's based on a few demand and inventory issues. And this podcast episode is part of the lecture by the way. We are all watching this video. In case you guy don't know! So you guys clearly impressed our lecturers, no wonder why we are now here. (i) Which of the presenters best describes the market condition that Giant Bicycles faces and explain why you agree with him or her? (ii) Draw a diagram of the bicycle market that illustrates the market conditions discussed in the podcast. (iii) Explain the adjustment process to the new equilibrium position in the bicycle market.

[@r0sco_1]

The bike pricing went crazy in the last decade. Decent £2k bikes are now £4k but the technology isn't not twice as good despite what they might claim. Bike manufacturers got greedy. Most people will now replace less frequently.

[@mctrials23]

Did they? If it was that simple, one company would be absolutely dominating by offering waaay better value than the other brands. Costs have shot up across the board. I imagine there was someone saying exactly what you have, 10 years ago as well. My shopping hasn't doubled in quality but it sure as hell has doubled in price in the last 10 years.... greedy suppliers eh?

[@r0sco_1]

@@mctrials23 You can buy almost buy decent motorbike or car for cheaper than a decent bike these days. I refuse to believe components have increased their costs that much. For sure I would expect them to go up with inflation but greed has also come into it. Cycling is the new golf and shareholders want returns.

[@paddymurphy-oconnor8255]

I think Trek pricing is crazy, along with all the premium manufacturers. They are very greedy.

[@iyadkamhiyeh527]

They are actively trying to make cycling a luxurious hobby like Golf.. only for the rich! F that! no one can convince me that any bike on earth is worth more than 3K max.

[@user-fy7ri8gu8l]

@@r0sco_1 There's actually a pretty good youtube vid on just that. Basically, most motorbikes designs have stayed the same for 40 years, they basically make next to no changes year to year, all the tooling staying 99% the same, and they make maybe 1 or 2 models from a make if that, the best values just make 1, the supply line for parts is the same too, same story there too. Whereas bikes are basically re-engineered yearly, with parts that are re-engineered yearly, with new molds, new tooling a couple times a decade, new suppliers constantly, they supply various sizes and then variations on parts to kit the same way a car company would and also variation on paint. It's really comparing apples to oranges. NOW - a professional riders bike is about the same thing as one of these expensive bikes it's basically 95% 'there' meanwhile a 5k motor bike is nowhere even in the same universe as a 2 million dollar racing motorcycle.

[@ewep973]

Trek and Giant, drop your prices! You have so much inventory, but your pricing is CRAZY

[@rommelreyes2209]

True. That is why you would skip them specially Giant and go for a more premium brand.

[@iMadrid11]

Giant can’t aggressively drop prices. Since it would hurt the other brands who they manufacture bikes for.

[@damo5219]

Agreed. Id buy a new bike this year...but the Giant price for an aluminium bike are unpalatable. So, im looking for a second hand one at my preferred price point.

[@runl6117]

​@@iMadrid11there's only one solution. All brands need to drop their prices

[@blackflamesolutions526]

I rode 'elite without contract' in NL / BE 15 years ago and it was just well known that 1. Around 40% of the riders are on something and 2. There are almost never controls. I used to take my pre-race bowel movement in the doping control room toilet as there was never anyone in it. The only anti-doping measure at most races was just a sign on a changing room door saying ' doping control'. Top criterium racers in NL can take home 30k prize money per year. The chance of getting tested at a Dutch criterium is almost zero. Two of my peers got promoted to the pro ranks in 2008. One of them is now dead and the other went from local races in NL to coming 12th in the Vuelta and the Worlds, then mysteriously declining in form and disappearing once his team were included in the biopassport program.

[@MyTVSucks]

They both went to the team that later signed ultra doper Riccardo Riccò

[@XNick291X]

Trek/Giant is so saturated with their range so it gets confusing when models overlap which have similar spec/pricing

[@boriente]

I'm glad to see such good sportsmanship at the finish line. In addition to simple goodwill, it shows actual professionalism that should be expected from professionals.

[@phoffen3829]

Lance Armstrong knows less than zero about sportsmanship. I think that has been proven. It is not generational, it is not anything. It is just him.

[@CoffeeAddictLee]

i think it should be remembered that they're friends off the "field" too

[@holgz]

Yes to good sportsmanship, also yes to winning at all costs (within the rules… Lance!)

[@rlm4471]

I think the teams coach the riders to do it, because it's good PR for the team. These days, cycling mostly comes down to watts and strategy. Playing silly psychological games and starting petty interpersonal drama is probably not helpful, and it reflects poorly on the team and the sponsors.

[@TimIrwin26]

The big things for me about the current crop of riders is that they have genuine respect for each other, and for the most part, they seem to be having fun. They're just as (or more) competitive than previous generations, but it's more based on whose got the best legs / lungs. It all makes for great racing in my book.

[@cmmoll1]

“They do not compete like we did.” That’s fantastic news, for many reasons. Armstrong is a sociopath and a bully - doping was the least of his offenses; sadly talent doesn’t care what vessel it’s poured in. Pogacar’s humor and sportsmanship, on the other hand, show how much better we can be.

[@jonathanrobinson2628]

Studded tyres: I'm in SE Sweden. Absolutely vital for winter riding. I've done about 2500km on them over this winter and still require them on the odd day. We have extended periods of hard packed snow and ice and they grip wonderfully. They are very slow though.

[@jonathanrobinson2628]

I'll add that I have different bikes with different studded tyres for different conditions. Schwalbe Marathon Winter Plus for road riding and Suomi Hile Reflex for rough/fresh snow or snowy gravel. Touch wood, I've not fallen off this winter! 😊

[@Pauluseikkailee]

Hello from Finland. Studs are absolutely the go to thing if you want to do riding outside.

[@grantmcalpine6364]

The demand has gone down as we're all dealing with a cost of living crisis and buying bikes takes a back seat to feeding your family.

[@Flakey101]

It is not just that. Much of the bump was caused by new/returning cyclists caused by the pandemic. What they failed to realise was most of this new group has little interest in keeping up with the latest and greatest, and are still riding the same bike 3 years later, with no plans on changing until that bike totally breaks down.

[@owenoutragous666]

True , like I saved for a new bike about 2 years ago still gonna keep using it , dont think I could do the college diet lifestyle again just for a new bike well not for a long time yet.

[@Marcel-ib1wp]

Whatever, but i have always considered N+1 to be more important than feeding the family.

[@RicardoRocha-lg1xo]

Unfortunately true, Grant… I’m starting a family and unless both my bikes break down completely, I do not see myself buying a new one anytime soon, as I can’t justify it

[@norgtube]

Whoever takes sportmanship advice from Lance F Armstrong of all people can be *safely* ignored lmao.

[@Ron_Boy]

I think Lance has owned up to his errors of judgment. I'll never be a fanboy of his as I once was -- back in the day -- but I think he's entitled to the same understanding, and forgiveness, for his mistakes as the rest of us. If you'd like to see a different, more contrite side of Lance, check out his interview on Rick Roll's podcast.

[@Flinches]

Perhaps Giant and Trek should focus on making good value bikes...

[@gravelDave]

Trek make a 14.5kg alloy topfuel , put average components on it and then ask £4.5k for it. The answers are pretty clear. Reduce prices.

[@stephendenagy3396]

@@gravelDaveI have finished upgrading my Turbo Levo comp. Handlebars, MUCH better brakes drivetrain. For the price not nearly good enough.

[@out_spocken]

They do. But people want to ride the fast good stuff! Ergo supply and demand. Till people stop paying what they are asking the prices will keep increasing.

[@ReverzEffect]

@@out_spocken They don't... it's just bad value. Other brands can produce similar bikes for like 20% less. The only way you can call a Trek bike good value is if you compare it to Specialized.

[@Brentatious]

Yes. Without the horribly Power branded hydraulic brakes. They suck! Also, the caliper mounts routinely need facing. Unacceptable in today’s modern era of manufacturing.

[@leissp1]

Studded tires yes definitely under-rated . I have used them in the winter here in Toronto. Black Ice is a real thing and will take you out before you even know whats happening. Yes they are heavy yes they are slow but my safety is more important. Your podcast/Vlog is awesome. I thought listening to you all talking for an hour would be boring but you keep the interest up. I keep coming back and listen to whole thing.😄

[@alienaudaxer9827]

I extended my GRX range using a Wolftooth and it works beautifully. It just survived a 500km gravel event (better than my body anyway) so a firm recommendation from me. 1:1 is decent for road though, but more is better for this enormous challenge. Good luck Sam.

[@ajearlywine4622]

Maybe it’s because I’m a new racer, but why wouldn’t you congratulate your fellow racers post race

[@MatejJurac]

There is absolutely no logical reason not to. It is how sportsmanship works and honestly, how beeing a decent human works.

[@rob-c.]

In the case of Lance, because you are a sociopath

[@terrycruise-zd5tw]

cause those top guys back then were all hopped on steroids and having such high levels of that increases aggression and mood swings

[@beavc]

Agree…it’s sportsmanship to congratulate and being decent when you lose.

[@0dcd9530]

I think nic mentionned the difference with congratulating with a handshake and hugging your fellow racers. But I believe this is particularly cultural as a hug is not necessarily used in the same context and in different parts of the world. Codes change.

[@JustSueMe]

Older generation was all about grabbing as big a slice of the pie as they could, that's why they were so competitive. Younger "social media" generation is more about making that pie bigger, bringing cycling into the view of more people.

[@mctrials23]

It also wouldn't fly these days. If Lance and his generation were transported to the current day, they would be dropped within months for saying the wrong thing or doing something that might damage a brands image.

[@MrMartinSchou]

That Lance Armstrong comment, to me, boils down to "back in my day we were sore losers and even worse winners".

[@ChryskylodonInstitute]

that's exactly what it is. Pogi with his wholesome attitude win or lose is million times the rider the bitter doper ever was

[@MatejJurac]

And back in LA days all doped up to the last cell and beyond. LA was an huge ass even to his teammates. Perhaps that bike mechanic bloke should read about how 'great sportsman' LA was.

[@MichaelBoogerd]

@@MatejJurac to be fair, if sharing a podium with Lance and he would come over and give me a hug, i'd be scared and wonder what i've done wrong :D

[@Silidons91]

@@MatejJurac every pro athlete is on gear, if you think otherwise I have beachfront property in Montana to sell you

[@TesterAnimal1]

@@Silidons91is every pro athlete a vindictive psychopath too?

[@grumpy9478]

my pov of Lance is that he's not so much an American, but a TEXAN (the Lone Star / chip-on-shoulder state) who'd had a hard early family life. & he developed a steely hyper-competitive mindset (even by pro-athlete standards). so, when he got to Europe & saw what was going on in order to win - tradition of win or die / rampant drug use - he became determined to "kick this asses at their own game - NOTHING's off the table." he was so insistent at it - & so good at it - that he alienated everyone who was more old school Euro in their "style" of being a winner. that'll catch up w/ you, eventually... like Faust.

[@cb6866]

Thank you Emily , Jimmi , and Nic....you are so right about the anxiety before an event ...any little thing can be disaster in the mind !

[@jamesthomas2196]

If companies reduced their prices and brought back some decent spec rim brake bikes, many more people would buy bikes again. They’re now too expensive and more complicated to fix.

[@esanchez47]

Here in Chile, you can buy a Trek Checkpoint ALR5 for €3.000 ... Yeah, that's a lot for aluminum considering you can get similar bikes for less than a half of that price (Cube, Giant, Scott). Silver lining is that now is a good time for the used bikes market.

[@ff2e]

i have a deore 51 on my grx rd with a drop link and its worked perfect for 2 years, nick :p

[@richard0202]

I fitted the 11/46 to grx and with a very minor b screw adjustment it works perfectly. I appreciate Nick’s commercial/warranty comments as a bike shop owner, but really no bodge necessary and the gear changes are just the same as before.

[@bartomiejczado7952]

I once tried to fit an 11-36 casette on my old 10-speed DeoreXT deraileur (cross bike specific version) and it didn't work. I checked Shimano manual and it said 11-34 is the biggest possible. Wouldn't think that just 2T would make such a difference, yet it did.

[@bartomiejczado7952]

PS. Fitting a 24T chainring instead of 26T worked and solved the problem for me :) And also, riding at a ratio waaaay below 1:1 is still more efficient than quicker than walking ;)

[@thegrizzlys]

For the question about gearing, I switched out my 50-34 crankset for a 46-30 and then because I use 10 speed tiagra, the real groupset of the people I have a grx400 RD with an 11-36 casette, this is my set up for ultra racing and the extra gears are super handy. It's not a crazy expensive set up either.

[@void_presence]

I'm GLAD to see competitors 'hugging it out', that's true sportsmanship and I'm glad it's going towards this rather than a toxic community.

[@michaelrowave]

Absolutely, in fact even in amateur contact sports like jiu-jitsu how you conduct yourself before and after a match matters. People trying to choke each other out can stand up and shake hands after the whistle blows. I think showing respect for your opponent reflects a respect for the sport and oneself. Lance only ever cared about Lance. As someone who lives near a popular training route seeing me0first semi-pros aging on drivers while ignoring traffic safety themselves gives cycling in general a bad reputation. Being a fierce competitor doesn't preclude acting honorably. It's a Bushido tradition many athletes understand. The essence of Bushidō is: do not lie, do not be insincere, do not be obsequious, do not be superficial, do not be greedy, do not be rude, do not be boastful, do not be arrogant, do not slander, do not be unfaithful, be on good terms with comrades, do not be overly concerned with events, show concern for one another, be compassionate, with a strong sense of duty. Being a good samurai takes more than merely a willingness to lay down one's life. - 5th scroll of the Kashoki by Saitō Chikamori (1642)[1]

[@icemanskating1172]

When you discuss wet weather riding I find it a whole new world within cycling. Cheers from Australia

It's so nice to see Nic back! Garbaruk is also a nice option if you want to build a mullet gear ratio. I did this on my dropbar mountainbike to run a 11-52 cassette with my grx deraileur. Well, I actually also could just got a mtb drivetrain instead for the price, but that wouldn't be in that lovely purple color :D

[@peterlucky9815]

I love your podcasts, they're really interesting and i was searching for something about cyclism for a long time. May I suggest about the filming one little thing. The rule of 180° in movie for makking the discussions more understandable when we look at your podcast. The podcasts undercover who are also 3 people are makking it very well and I think it would improve your. Have a great day :)

[@nycdrummingstar]

This has been a great episode. Nick is awesome and a live band would be awesome as well

[@Old-MTB-Man]

Random thought about doping - Don't have to do every race - just enough to prevent a dopper from statically winning the season.

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

We had a race where control showed up. The most disturbing thing was that Masters racers were caught using EPO/CERA and the winners were disqualified. Why use when the purse total was USD 50.

[@MichaelBoogerd]

@@jamesmckenzie3532 then you simply realize that the prize money was not the motivator ;)

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

@@MichaelBoogerd I do. Pride mostly. However, the costs of getting caught were more than the fame they sought.

[@jamescarlphotography4523]

As someone who is now 55 and has been racing at a reasonably decent level since starting as a junior ride at the age of 14 - masters racing is, IMO, the worst for PED use.

[@hagakuru]

Well, there has been an influx of TRT into the mainstream (especially in the 50+ cat) and I'm talking about people that have to use it due to medically low testosterone (less than 300). Their primary focus is taking testosterone to feel better and NOT to only increase their performance on the bike and abuse it. I believe there is a wavier available for people medically diagnosed with hypogonadism, but the hoops are long and wide.

[@innsbrooklyn]

pretty sure that Wiggle shutting down is not solely related to the crisis within the bike industry. Wiggle Ltd. was/is part of Signa Sports United which itself was part of Signa Retail which again was a subsidiary of Signa Holding, a mainly real estate focused company founded by Austrian investor René Benko, which gained notoriety for its shady business construct. Signa and as a consequence Benko ultimately went down in late 2023 and are facing insolvency and private insolvency at the moment. So I'm guessing in all of this bike industry trouble Wiggle is facing quite a different sort of madness atm.

[@cwmitch2]

Cheers Gang loved it as ever.

[@nicholascastle9727]

Lance - 'But they do not compete like we did'. The whole of cycling is thankful they don't, Lance. The only person you were hugging was the team doctor.

[@olsmxl6975]

Here is the Boston area - love studded tires on my fat bike, I never worry if there is ice under the snow...and I use them 2 or 3x a year so they will last a long time

[@markj.a351]

I used studded tyres on snow and ice when I live abroad. Amazing things.

[@andrewcalladine2507]

Please can I ask where Nick got his cool T-shirt from? Campervans and Bikes the perfect combination.

[@nicvieri2627]

It’s from Enduro Bearings. Im not sure if they are still doing it though 😞 Bu far my favourite top.

[@ambition_vs_talent]

Glad you discussed bring friends/family into cycling. My girlfriend wants to get a gravel bike and entry level bike cost is difficult to judge. currently looking at the $800 or 1600$ price range as that's our budget.

[@carlsadca]

Rather than mess with the rear mech of a bike, for what is a climbing event. why not change out your front chainrings to a 48l30 ratio ( GRX 810 crankset , for example) rather than add a "pie plate" sized cassette and add a Wolf adapter and a longer B limit screw?

[@ColinSmith2001]

If the Synapse has a Cannondale Hollowgram chainset then there are 46/30 spiderings on sale pretty cheap just now.

[@timwolf2215]

Comparing it to top level rugby is such a good analogy. Gentlemen battling it out like gladiators then once the siren goes it’s game over. The sport of cycling is at such a good place right now because of riders like Tadej and friends. Long may it live like this. It could also expand into normal society due to this and may even help the image of regular cyclists out in the road

[@Enidub]

I’ve been using the same black Brooks Leather tape since 2018. It’s been installed on 4 four different builds over the years, survived years of commuting, long rides, tours and even a few crashes. It’s comfortable without sacrificing too much bar feel and can be cleaned. I chose it in the hope I wouldn’t have to buy tape for a long time, and it’s exceeded my expectations. So from my experience, making the right choice of bar tape is underrated if you know exactly what you want out of it.

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

It's interesting that kit was brought up. Some kit looks great out of the package, but doesn't last. Other kit looks questionable out of the package but lasts forever and is more comfortable once through a few washs. I recommend replacement after a couple of seasons as the foam in the padding will break down even if lying in the closet.

[@kipcc3918]

For the last question, Climbing setups are up to your skill, Ditch the 2x front and go one by, I’m assuming your descent wont be timed and for safety concerns you won’t be going too fast cause you might take out people going up. Nick’s correct don’t go against manufacturers specs. There are other options like he mentioned. It’s gonna be less faff, and Shimano has one of the best interchangeability options.

[@kubagornowicz]

Down tube storage is a fantastic stuff - it's a free storage space, why wouldn't you wan't it? I keep there pump/tools/tube and got space left for rain jacket. I took it all out only once on a ride, and it's not a big deal taking it out - takes less time than taking off the front wheel. Now I have extra room in pockets for food, phone, keys etc - on a longer rides it makes a difference, you can pack all stuff in more reasonable manner, not crammed as tight as possible. And I very very much don't like saddle bags.

[@Tsnor150]

You don't worry about WATER getting into the tubes through the hatch, having no way out, collecting and rotting out the bottom end? That's what has me avoiding bike like trek domane.

[@kubagornowicz]

@@Tsnor150 I got a nice little hole in the bottom of the frame in my Specialized Diverge. Besides that I have a cloth that fill space and prevents rattling right under the storage lid - It wasn't ever wet inside even after washing the bike a with the pressure washer.

[@kubagornowicz]

@@Tsnor150 ps. you can also leave the storage open after riding in the rain or washing...

[@dutoitm1]

@@Tsnor150 I have both a Trek Checkpoint and Domane with this downtube storage. Can confirm only when heavily washing the bike does water ingress and I just let it dry out after washing. No big deal at all and having the storage heavily outweighs this slight inconvenience. Water does not enter when riding in the rain or through puddles etc.

[@Tsnor150]

@@dutoitm1 TY for confirming this. My bike frame/fork seem structurally sound ('91 trek 1200) but now seems like the time to upgrade before they fail. I was avoiding trek because of the in-frame storage, avoiding Giant because of hookless, etc. Maybe I'll go took at a domane.

[@spokedonwrenching]

The greatest inhibitor to the road cycling industry is road safety and refusal to face reality. Larger vehicles occupy roads affected by heavier traffic and worsening climate conditions. Addressing those issues will have a material impact on the future of the sport.

[@malcolmanderson9678]

Good recommendation at 51:30 to go for a hardtail mountain bike as an entry point. I bought a Giant Escape 2 a few years ago and while I'm now looking forward to getting a road bike, I have no plans to get rid of the Escape. Super comfortable, practical, and capable for alot of applications.

[@daviddiallo6582]

Hi guys, sorry, no sprint on the champs elyseés this year (Paris 2024 olympics) The final stage will be in Nice! Really like the pod, thanks!

[@hkp9257]

Really loving the episodes with Nic. Can we also get an episode with bikefit james? :)

[@frazergoodwin4945]

My Trek Checkpoint SL frame has downtube storage. And I find it really handy enables me to have mul- for me its something that's "Under-rated"

[@ForzaJonesy]

The giant propel advanced 2 2024 is 300 quid more expensive than it was last year. And 1500 more expensive than it was in 2015. They say its due to customer demand? Or is it due to screwing over their customers. A reset is desperately needed.

[@williamforbes7156]

I don't think I would look at sports the way I do without a lance Armstrong or even know what velodromes hour records or even triathlon is but yeah you don't see many other riders putting out content for their own mindsets. Gonna be a great year of racing tho.

[@lolbubs11111]

Specialized diverge has one of those downtube storage things. It's just nice because you don't need a tail bag and it keeps the mud off.

[@izi941]

The shop where I work in, we have our own brand of custom made frames (99% just custom paint and components according to customers wishes, very rare a custom geometry/model). What I saw is that we ‘re relatively independent of the market conditions last few years. The sales haven’t gone up or down (servicing did tho, more work)

[@timosborne5282]

Studded tires on snow is beneficial in places that get really cold, since there will often be a layer of ice under the snow. Packed down snow will also frequently become ice. I think that’s not so much of an issue in places like the UK where it stays warm enough for small amounts of snow to provide enough insulation that freezing doesn’t happen.

[@markjthomson]

Ah the bar tape revealed... I loved the Fabric tape but it's hard to get here in NZ, I looked at the BBB and was wondering if it was the same... and it is! Joy abounds, thank you Bike Mechanic Nic!

[@MartinBrown-mb7pz]

Zip Service Course CX is my fave but also hard to get ion NZ lately. Tape matters a lot to me.

[@Zloab2742]

Second hand market is so good, don’t know why you would by new atm

[@rfents]

frame storage definitely not overrated, got one on my Diverge and it's mint.

[@edudutra]

Just one note, there will be no final sprint at the Champs Elysee this year because of the Olympics.

[@SergioLopez-nb3vx]

I see Nick being like the gladiator clip “are you not entertained”

[@hectorkidds9840]

Re smaller gears. I agree with Nick, don't argue with Shimano unless you have some mechanical sympathy. However, I've got bikes with 11sp ultegra and 11sp GRX and happily run an 11:40 out back. The GRX chainset with a 46:30 up front is a game changer for the big mountains, a bottom gear of 30:40 is awesome, and it means that most of the day you are not on bottom gear so you get a better chain line. If you spend all day in your 34:34 your chain will not love the angle.

[@charles-h9e]

Im witg Jimmy. I've fitted an 11-36T aliexpress special rear cassette (max advised 11-32T) to an 5500 era 105 chainset and managed it without needing to change the chain - i have since... appreciated the extra range for repping ditchling beacon training last year when i started at 104kg ..

[@Fango925]

To comment on studded tires - they're incredible in snowy places. In Minnesota most commuters will run them all winter. They're loud and slower, but they're so much better than a broken collarbone. Gravel and MTB tires are absolutely fine when you know there's ice and you can go slow, where studs help is where there's unexpected ice and you might be going to fast. They'll keep you upright then and avoid an ER visit

[@ohmps01]

About the gear ranges: I am running grx 2x11 810, and running the 11-42 with a wolftooth goat link. It works fairly well. If it's well set up it shifts almost perfectly, same length chain. Pretty much the biggest possible range. But the better way for the climbing event is definitely getting smaller chain rings

[@IsaacRC]

I passed from the wolftooth (with the same grx 2x11 11-42) which had big chain issues and gear defficiencies to buying the grx 1x11 rear mech which technically accepts 42 tooth, the trick is to change the small pulley wheel to an equal size as the bigger one, after some serious tuning perfect 👌

[@ohmps01]

Maybe it depends on the frame or something, mine only currently has a small issue shifting out of the biggest cog on the rear, otherwise it shifts perfectly

[@IsaacRC]

@@ohmps01 yeah of course it's all about geometry, even with the one by rear mech that is compatible with a max 42 t it also has problems shifting to the big one but after cutting the ideal chain length, changing the pulley and adjusting the hight to be super close to the cogs it shifts all the range fine without flaw, although compared to the shifting quality of a 11-34 it's not that fast

[@ohmps01]

@@IsaacRC well mine is pretty fast tbh. I did read that the optimal setup is supposedly the 1by cage on the 2by derailleur. But I haven't had a need to spend money on the other cage tbh, in the range I mainly use shifting is basically instant. And that's with the clutch engaged

[@IsaacRC]

@@ohmps01 good for u, my wolftooth shifts pretty well too considering its only a piece of metal but when i reversed pedal with the big plate in descents the mech got crazy to the point of even jumping the chain off

[@Fixingeverthingwithaengine567]

I remember when in order to order a trek frame. You had to order through trek manufacturer/warehouse in one of the states here in America. I remember when the color of the trek was black,white, or bare metal. Colors are awesome on frames but I think trek should sell the frames separately. My marlin 7 is my everything bike. A mixture of mtb/gravel is more usable then a road bike. Especially when my first 3 miles to work is all dirt,gravel,and Rocky with uneven everywhere. It made me a tougher rider. Smooth roads would be a dream but it is what it is. I do 16 miles a day from work and back. My bike would be a tool. Like a wrench it does what I expect it to do. I ridden some of the cheapest bikes out there. Quality is more important then quantity.

[@Clem21]

Thanks!

[@OneDougUnderPar]

In the strongman community (which I'm sure you're all a big part) the current World's Strongest Man is heavily disliked by fans because ... he's a friendly Canadian and not a rage monster.

[@AnvilAirsoftTV]

Love Moose. He does break the mould for Strongman but long term that’s probably a good thing.

[@stevenhowes530]

I think Jimmy nailed it. Studded tires for Ice. if it's just loose snow then tire width is king. I can ride all winter but if there's a lot of fresh snow then the 700x35 (Schwalbe) tires are way too much work. For people that haven't ridden in snow, think of a nice ride on the beach. how fun is it with thin tires in sand.

[@virtualmartijn]

@44:00 but there are people who like their bar tape coordinated with their frame. Love the Deda Elementi tape for that.

[@charleshsiao9887]

If you guys come to Taiwan Taipei I wood really like to meet you guys at the bike show, went there this year it's amazing

[@ish474]

You can get a Sunrace cassette for the price of the wolf tooth Link. I run a GRX derailleur (tiagra 10sp derailleur only went up to 32) with a 11-36 for the dumbest reason ever, I wanted a black cassette because my entire bike is otherwise blacked out and it kept bothering me, also I love a quiet bike.😂

[@ian_pedalz]

I agree with the quiet mechanic, more competition should be spitting on one another!

[@harkmamil4229]

The bar tape solution is nearer than you think: Decathlon (again). Cheap but good.

[@vandyink]

Bravo Nick! Power meters, radios, be done with them. It would make cycling so exciting. It would mean everyone on the team would have to be aware of who just went off the front, etc. this would all bring back some of what many of us miss which is a degree of chaos, where the truly gifted riders excel. The controlling aspect of team racing has really made much of multi day racing a boring procession. I think it would be more like one day classics.

[@__uorson]

about generational divides: we DON'T have to stay in the way things were when we grew up. it *is* possible to evolve. i love lance (and bike mechanic nic!) and i understand what he means but i also feel he doesn't fully mean it... it's a bit of a character. and he's grown as well. i agree with you 1000% percent, jimmi. there's only one winner but *everyone* is giving their best. it's a better example for the world to see our heroes give priority to fraternity. it's not like they're competing any less furiously. we're still getting a show. you may have seen matej mojorič's interview after winning stage 19 of the tour de france last year. PLEASE watch it if you haven't. he expresses it perfectly. as always, i love you. you are my favorite podcast in the world. i see what you're doing.... this ain't about bikes.

[@CrikeyCrites]

Le Tour does not finish in Paris this year due to the Olympics - Final Sprint Stage is in Nice.

[@CFCMahomet]

The bike industry loves to make the club rider think they can be a pro (do they can sell expensive gear). Taking that to the next level now more amateurs are doping.

[@0dcd9530]

About the reader question: I can't believe Nic didn't propose a gravel/subcompact/supercompat chainset or whatever they are called these days. You can score a GRX600 or FSA Gossamer Pro chainset with 46/30 chainrings for around 100-150€, even lower if looking second hand. That would be ideal for that guy riding Alpe d'Huez 6 times as it gives a much lower ratio, allow him to ride middle of the cassette more time and needs very little adjustments: lowering the front derailleur a bit (probably better to swap the cable), removing a few links to the chain and that's it. It is not more expensive than buying new derailleurs, cassettes and chain and said riders might just like it and not put back the 50-34 chainset afterwards. 46x11 is a tall enough gear for most people who don't plan on sprinting to a finish line.

[@kobiau]

On a topic of storage. Trek Domane, all SL versions have a nice system

[@LOZUPONEJ]

I love my checkpoint and old rim brake Domane

[@Samwell314]

Lets hear it for Nic taking it up for the Manx Missle!

[@edwinwong9547]

Was that comment from Armstrong's "The Move" podcast? On that podcast, Armstrong made similar comments on how this generation is different from his generation, at which point Hincapie says "Only YOU were different, Lance, WE were all giving each other high fives." At which point, everyone laughed, Lance turned red, and changed the topic😅

[@arcoulant87]

Cav is the man!

[@eddymaddix1786]

Two sprinters were first and second in Milan - San Remo

[@T.I.M.5]

Hey here’s a novel idea for Trek and Giant and frankly all the other manufacturers, Lower your prices and stop ripping off your customers. I’d be willing to bet that demand would increase greatly.

[@user-vq2ul8hh8n]

Nokian studded tires are very slow but you don't slip on ice. I think it is better not to ride in ice or freezing rain.

[@WoodyinBright]

16:50, Emily is spot on about lack of demand. This isn’t blaming consumers, it’s just terminology acknowledging that the buyers aren’t t there or aren’t buying.

[@RobLunn1]

Drink every time Jimmy says, "historically" 😂😂😂

[@dsmhiggins67]

The omerta around sports doping is insidious. Just asking questions about "incidents" and you'll get people attacking you for the mere questioning of results/deaths/etc. Just the mere mention of the case of certain Scottish rider who passed away in the night after an amazing fight back to win a race a few days before...

[@daredemontriple6]

Absolutely get a second hand bike! My partner has ridden bikes all her life and always enjoyed it, but they've always been mountain bikes. She never really did any off-road cycling - just that when you've got a kiddo, a bike with flat bars, big knobbly tyres and low gear ranges is a lot easier for them to deal with. Well as a roadie myself, and as she wanted to tag along on some rides with me, we went looking for a bike. Managed to find her a Cannondale CAAD 8 in almost pristine condition - just one minor dent on the top tube and superficial scratches and such elsewhere. It cost us £175. While it's not an especially nice bike, it's still lightweight and feels like a road bike. Ultimately, if she didn't enjoy it, we were losing at most £175, though at least half that could have easily been recovered by selling it on again. In any case she now feels like she can go for little rides on nice isolated tracks and paths of which Bristol has a fair few, and who knows what that may mean for the future. Given our height difference she might be leaving me in the dust on big climbs before too long. Not much money invested to get someone who's never even thought about 'road cycling' before to develop an interest.

[@danwentcycling7952]

Sun 1:1 ratio riding being less efficient than walking sounds like bro-science. Any idea where he got that from?

[@treszenrv9401]

@Cade_Media @sam @Samuel Radcliff. How about a 2x11 GRX crankset? 31-48(equivalent to a 37.3 casset) or even 30-46 (equivalent to a 38.5 casset). Front derailleur may even work with some height adjustment. Probably a better chaine line then any MTB Crankset.

[@randallmiller3842]

Studded tires, absolutely great. Have them on my fatbike and used them on my cyclocross to commute to work as long as possible into winter. Spoiler, I’m in Canada. All you need to do is hit ice one to realize rubber and ice can be a bad combo.

[@user-hn5kh7qt9r]

Doping has been around for ever. Maybe test by lottery before the race. Amateur racing in Italy has been bad for years.

[@dominicbritt]

Can I suggest the best solution for the Alpe D’Huez guy is threshold training…34/34 should be fine.

[@skinheads]

Francis on a trip meaning Nick on a podcast, noice!

[@ariffau]

One way to cut down SKU is just to get rid of unnecessary proprietary gubbins and in-house brands. Remember when we could fit any stem/integrated handlebar on any bike without the need to source for 3D printed spacers? Bianchi with Reparto Corsa and Veloman, Trek with Bontrager, Spesh with Roval, Orbea with OC and Oquo. Enough with in-house branded stems that weighs 200g - 230g that’s softer than melted cheese. Outsource them. Leave it to component brands like Zipp, Enve, Vision, FSA, Deda, Darimo, EXS etc.

[@thewillyfamily]

I don't know if its because I'm South African as well, but I like the way Nick's mind works. Agree with him about being too friendly with your competition. Don't get me wrong, I think they are great role models to a new generation if riders but, an Ayrton Senna type chracter is needed in evry sport. WIN becuse losing sucks. Great podcast and great entertainment. Thank you

[@Servicevelo]

EPO became widespread in the early nineties. I remember a spate of otherwise fit young Dutch riders dying in their sleep. Greg Lemond said in 1991 the speeds cranked up stratospherically. In one form or other, it’s still there. We look back at how Gewiss Ballan would take the first three places in races. We see that as evidence of doping but we celebrate Visma Leasabike who do that as routine. And before other commenters add that it’s due to improved nutrition and aero designs take note. All teams have the improvements and bikes and what did they eat in the ‘90’s?

[@Frostbiker]

55:46 What makes Nick think that anything lower than a 1:1 ratio means that walking would be more efficient? A 1:1 ratio on 700C tires means around 2.2 meters of development (28 gear inches). Even at a low 60rpm you will be doing about 12Km/h (7.5mph). Do you really think that jogging at that speed while pushing the bike is going to be more efficient than spinning the cranks? I don't know where the breakeven point is in terms of efficiency, but it's going to be a much lower gear than that. Happy to be proven wrong, but this makes no sense to me.

[@IsaacRC]

Totally, a 1:1 is already a masochist exercise on a real world road minor incline where one needs the legs fresh to fine torque technical challenges.

[@robbchastain3036]

We need a long gravel race at the 2028 Olympics, that'd be epic for the popularity of that discipline. 😀