Tour De France Blog

Archive for February, 2010

Want to ride around the park without having to ride on busy streets to get there? Want to keep the kids out of mischief by bringing their bikes on holidays with you? Haven’t got an SUV or station wagon where you can throw your bike in the back? Then you need a bike rack for your car.

Bicycle car racks for the family car are pretty much a necessity if you have a bike and love riding. Whether you take your mountain bike into the hills on the weekends, or if you just want to take your road racer for a quit ride through the park, the safest way to get you and your bike there is with a quality bike car rack. Bicycle car racks come in many designs, so there’ll be one to suit your bike and car.

Firstly, the two main types of bicycle car racks are:

1. Roof mounted bike racks, for carrying your bikes on the roof of your car, and

2. Rear mounted bike racks including hitch, bumper and trunk mounted, for carrying your bikes on the rear of your vehicle.

If your car has roof racks, you might consider a roof mounted bike rack. These racks fit onto your existing roof racks allowing you to carry up to three bikes on the roof of your car. With roof mounted bike racks, you have the option of a rack that secures the wheels of your bike in place, or a rack that secures the front forks and rear wheel of your bike.

The advantages of roof mounted bike racks include no loss of visibility. However, you need to load your bike onto the roof so a roof mounted bike rack may not be for everybody, or every car. Also, you may need to factor in the extra wind resistance, especially if you’re taking your bikes on long trips.

Rear mounted bike racks can be mounted onto your tow hitch, trunk, rear bumper or your spare wheel depending on your vehicle. Some of these are secured using straps which won’t appeal to everybody, while the hitch mounted racks offer a greater level of security. You can generally hold up to three bikes on these rear mounted racks, depending on the type. The advantages of rear mounted racks are that you don’t need roof racks, your bikes are easier to load and unload and it can be a cheaper alternative. One disadvantage is that your rear visibility is usually reduced.

When it comes to transporting your bikes, you can find a bike rack to suit your bike, your vehicle and your own needs. Now there’s no excuse for not getting out there on your bike. Wherever it is you love to ride.

James Sanford
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/cant-transport-your-bike-that-excuse-doesnt-carry-much-weight-anymore-111038.html

I hear Lance is coming out of retirement and will cycle in the Tour de France. Do you think ARod will cycle also?

Rumor has it they’ve cycled a lot together but the tour de france will not be part of his offseason workout.

Mountain bike components are designed to withstand more abuse and extreme riding conditions. These components are heavier, sometime larger and more durable then road bike components. Sometime you are riding on dirt, rock, or in water, etc and the components need to be durable enough so they can withstand abusive treatment.

It just so happened that my rear derailleur broke on my full suspension mountain bike. I was riding a down hill trail and lost control of my bike. The rear of the bike ended up hitting the face of a rock and I was left with a mangled rear derailleur. So I looked at the positive side of the accident and said to myself now is the time to upgrade.

I could find new or near new parts on Bike Servant which is a mountain bike classifieds website and lists mountain bikes for sale, bike parts and race events but I was in the car with my bike so I decided to go to the store.

On the way home from the trail I stopped at my local bike store to buy a new derailleur so I can resume riding as quickly as possible. I told the bike shop guy my situation and she asked me which aftermarket Shimano derailleur I wanted to buy. Not knowing anything about the different categories in the Shimano product line I asked for help and this is what she relayed to me.

Shimano Deore is their entry level category. These products are inexpensive and meant for the occasional or enthusiast rider. These components are stocked on entry level mountain bikes.

Shimano Deore LX is their next level in higher quality. This category level consists of a more durable product. The main difference that I noticed is that Deore LX is lighter then Deore. My derailleur was a Deore LX and it has shown me proven quality and reliability for many years.

Shimano Deore XT was referred to as their heavy duty category. This product category is not considered race quality performance but they are light weight and more durable then the LX category. The price difference between the LX category and the XT category was noticeable.

Shimano XTR is considered their high performance category. Again these parts are lighter then the XT category. As a consumer I took notice to the price increase from XT to XTR. It appeared to me that this category appeals to the racers that demand light weight and high performance.

Keep in mind that this is not a complete list of Shimano’s product line. It is the list that my bike store carried.

So in my quest to buy a new derailleur I decided to purchase the Shimano Deore XT because of its light weight, durability and price. I had the bike shop install it for me and I was back on the trail in no time.

Bike Servant
http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/choosing-a-shimano-mountain-bike-component-753083.html

Kona mountain bikes are the specially designed mountain bikes manufactured by a bicycle company in the name of Kona Bikes. The company also has other product lines, which includes racing bicycles, frames, parts and accessories

The company has been dubbed as the “fun” bike company for its unconventional yet crazy bike names.

What’s more, it is believed that Kona is the first principal company to be “on board” as far as Freeride, or “North Shore” riding was concerned. Moreover, they are also known to produce some odd bikes that became instant hits in the market.

You must know that Kona bikes are more than suitable for UK weather conditions. No wonder, their mountain bikes have a huge market in U.K alone. Speaking of Kona bike range, you will find the Kona Stinky and not to mention the Kona Smoke are some of the best choices for the fanatic bike riders and novice cyclists.

Achievements

Believe it or not, Kona has manufactured a downhill bike that took the title of a Downhill World Champion twice. When it comes to cross country riding and cross-country racing you cannot do without Kona Bicycles. From designing to innovation, you will get it all with these bicycles. Although these kinds of races are really tough, Kona bicycles are equal to the task.

Durability and performance are the things that go hand in hand with Kona bikes and for this reason these bikes score high in dirt jumping. If you are seeking a bike for urban riding, then hit the road with Kona Asphalt. With Kona Asphalt, riding city streets becomes a child’s play.

Free riding bikes were always on demand and now with things going global, the demand has radically increased and Kona bikes have set the example worldwide especially as far as design is concerned.

The variety

The varied collection of mountain bikes from Kona has taken a considerable share of the market. For example Kona Lana I 2005 Mountain Bike, Kona Fire Mountain 2006 Mountain Bike, Kona Shred 2006 Mountain Bike, Kona Cinder Cone Sole 2007 Mountain Bike, Kona Unit 2007 Mountain Bike, Kona Kikapu-8 2007 Mountain Bike and all that have been instant hits.

If you have any queries about this company and it’s products, go through it’s shopping help web page to find answers. Another thing you should know is that Kona accepts sponsorship requests and resumes by email. You may also avail yourself to discounted bikes, so check it out with your local Kona dealers.

If you have already bought a Kona mountain bike then you can seek the customer service department for any queries and enhancements. Maybe, you want to install a DH fork, or a specific tire or may even want to include more suspension to your bike, the Kona people are always ready with their suggestions. All you need to mention is the type of bike, the date of manufacture and its serial number.

Robert Sheehan
http://www.articlesbase.com/fitness-articles/kona-mountain-bikes-biking-at-its-best-100977.html

Does anybody else think that this year’s Giro d’Italia was just a prologue to a huge future tour de france competition? Both Alberto Contador and Riccardo Ricco have similar riding styles, and both have asserted themselves as strong young riders.

As a side question, will Benatti and Cavendish and their battle in the Giro be a precursor to a sprinters rivalry as well?

Unfortunately Ricco tested positive for EPO and was thrown out of the Tour today (7/17/08)

In my opinion there was no way he was going to rival Contador anyway. Condator has become an excellent time trialist to go along with his superior climbing skills. Ricco only had the climbing… and now I guess we know why.

What a shame…

To answer your other question, Cav and Benatti are definitely the real deal. Sort of like the old Zabel, McEwen, O’Grady rivalry. Though those three are still racing, more and more of the sprints seem to be going to the younger guys. I guess the changing of the guard as far as sprinters is concerned is starting to happen.

Unlike mountain bike racing, the core of dirt jumping is the tricks. The jumps, the loops, the twirls in the air. When done properly, the sport looks almost like a dance; strong, artistic, and beautiful to watch. It takes years to reach a level where serious competition is possible and even then, without the right tricks, there is still the risk of losing.

Bike jumps, while not strictly considered part of the tricks the sport is famous for, are still considered the backbone of the sport. Since a lot of these tricks are performed midair, knowing how and when to jump is crucial for them to succeed. The amount of different jumps is astounding, and the most common of them is known as the double. It consists of two parts, the take-off and the landing, and is also known as the gap jump. Another jump that is important is the tabletop, and this is the jump those who vaguely know the sport recognize. It is three parts: take-off, table, and landing. The roller jump is based of this one.

The part dirt jumpers enjoy most though is the tricks, and they are also the most fun to watch. As long as you have a good grasp on how to do the jumps, these tricks will almost seem easy to you. The first trick is known as the tabletop but is different than the jump by the same name. It is performed by turning the side of the bike at a 90 degrees angle, either to the side or further up depending on your routine. The second is called the whip and, as its name suggests, depends on flipping the back of the bike to the side. There are many others, such as no hander where the jumper rides with both hands loose in the air, or suicide which is similar to the no hander but requires both hands to be stretched back as far as possible.

With the proper equipment these tricks, no matter how dangerous they may sound, may not result in serious injuries. Equipment in this case is not only the bike but protective gear as well. Shorts and a tight-fitted shirt to allow free movement, in addition to wrist supports and protective elbow and knee pads go a long way towards keeping the rider safe. A helmet is always a must, and goggles are recommended to keep the sand and sun out of your eyes.

Trevor Mulholland
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/some-effective-dirt-jumping-tricks-103540.html

How fast do pro cyclists go in tour de france? What is the fastest speeds they reach?

Riders frequently go more than 60mph on downhill sections.

Flat sections see riders travelling more than 40mph in explosive bursts

The pro riders can avg more than 35mph on the flats for long periods.

If you have a road bike you should know that the pro’s easiest gear is harder than you hardest gear . That is a reason that those fellows can go so fast.

With the advent of technology, inventions increase with each passing day, and motorized inventions are no exception to that. One of the most outstanding inventions in the world of motorcycles is the super pocket bikes. These super fast, miniature motorcycles have become the latest fad today of every speed enthusiast.

Super pocket bikes are a smaller version for the super bikes used in racing. This mini-bike isn’t the only mini invention in the motor world. It shares spotlight with the dirt pocket bike – a mini version of the dirt bikes specially created for children, and the fast pocketbike – built for adventure seekers who love the thrill of riding on a pocket bike.

Super pocket bikes are just like the usual racing bikes except for the fact that they are much smaller yet still larger than the mini pocket bikes. Super “mini” pocket motorcycles are also equipped with automatic transmissions, disc brakes, powerful engines and super fast speed capacity.

Safety in riding the super pocket bikes has become a critical issue for most parents of younger pocket bike riders. It may appear that kids fit perfectly on the super pocket bikes more than the adults do. However, this does not specifically mean that kids are encouraged to ride the super pocket bikes. Though small in size, super pocket bikes are actually designed for the big people and not for the small kids. It is specially made for experienced pocket bike riders who wish to ride a faster pocket bike. But apparently, if kids are really eager to ride and use the super pocket bike, then they would need the permission and supervision of a responsible adult in order to do as they wish.

Here are some safety tips one should put in minds before riding on the super pocket bikes:

Joe Hayes
http://www.articlesbase.com/motorcycles-articles/safety-tips-for-using-super-pocket-bikes-715914.html

Does anyone know about working on the tour de france? Is is possible to get a job doing something on the Tour, even if its unpaid?

Contact ASO via letour.fr and find out.

What are pocket bikes?

Pocket bikes or mini motos are small, speedy, gas powered motorcycles about 47 inches long and 18 inches tall. The smaller models reach a speed up to 35 mph while the superior models can achieve up to 50 mph. Earlier, pocket bikes were specially made and were costly but with these becoming popular, they are now more affordable. With the 47cc pocket bikes available now, you can choose among several varieties to suit your specific needs.

You can ride pocket bikes on tracks for competition or simply for fun. The sanctioning body, NAPRA was established to promote pocket bike racing and you can race on the pocket bikes with friends or in competitions. Go-kart tracks provide racetracks suited for pocket bikes.

The Different kind of Pocket Bikes with 47cc engine

There are many types of 47cc bikes to choose from. The Cagllari Daytona 47cc bikes are great value for money for the amateurs. For experienced racers, The Grand Prix MX3 with CAD is wonderful. The Blade version was built for hard track conditions and rough handling.

The pocket bike that gives the highest output is the Raptor with an increased torque but speed capacity intact. The GP RS-R is the modernist version in the 47cc models. This type of the 47cc bike offers a host of characteristics only found in larger versions of 47cc bikes.

The specifications for the standard 47cc bike include:

1. 47cc engine

2. Pull start method

3. 2 stroke oil and gas fuelled

4. 1 liter fuel capacity

5. Chain drive system

6. Speed of 35mph or over

7. 250 lbs load

8. Street terrain tires

9. Front and rear disc brakes

10. 40 lbs weight

11. Steel and plastic body

The Uniqueness of the Boreem 47cc Full Fairing Pocket Bike

This bike is unique as it has all the basic features and components, which are of excellent quality. Thus, its performance and reliability is superb. Despite this, it is inexpensive. It is really small at only 22 inches tall and weighs 43 lbs. Being small and light coupled with an extremely powerful engine it can rocket up to 40 mph.

The special features of the Boreem 47cc include:

1. 40mph speed

2. 30 mile range

3. Sturdy aluminum frame

4. Chain drive with rear wheel tension

5. Two cycle oil

6. 1.2 liters fuel tank capacity.

7. 10inch x 4.5 inch solid tires

8. 60 day warranty period.

The quality and attention devoted to all types of pocket bikes of the 47cc category is remarkable. After ordering and seeing this superior bike on arrival at your doorstep, you are sure to be impressed. The bikes are ready to use once out of the box but you are advised to follow all the safety instructions and use proper safety equipment.

You can order a 47cc bike according to your choice of style and color. After ordering, you have to wait for only about 2 working days to get this dream bike. If you spend a little extra, you can avail of the performance package that upgrades your bike to the next level. You will also be provided with free technical service for life and advice on upgrade as a part of after sales service.

So with all this information in your hand, order yourself a thrilling 47cc bike.

Robert Sheehan
http://www.articlesbase.com/fitness-articles/47cc-pocket-bikes-make-your-ride-as-thrilling-as-can-be-103461.html