The 2009 training and racing season is bringing about a number of changes, all of which are great. First off, upgrades to the bike! I’ve upgraded the wheel set on the Madone to Bontrager Aeolus 5.0’s thanks to the generosity of Extreme Ski and Bike who on “Team Night” offered all Bontrager components and parts at cost. Yes, at cost! This is truly an upgrade as I was originally riding on Brontrager Race Lite rims. I also decided to go ceramic in the bottom bracket this spring. When I first heard that you could really feel the difference between steel bearings and ceramic, I couldn’t believe it; however they were right. The rotation of the crack is much smoother and you can feel the difference the most when cruising at high speed. These two upgrades will hopefully make me slightly faster. The bike cannot get much better, so that means I only have one thing left to work on… The Engine!
Another change for the 2009 season came in the form of Wisport’s (www.wisport.org) restructuring of its competitive racing series. A new series was developed (Jim Menzel Racing Series) for faster races who are looking to compete with others that are at the same level. Participants in this series compete for the coveted “Jersey” awards in 12 stages which include 4 time trial, 4 sprint, and 4 hilly stages. This new structure should provide for some great racing in 2009.
Also in 2009 the Extreme Ski and Bike racing team’s kits have been updated with a new look. This look is bold and really makes the sponsors logos “pop”. These kits are being put together by Mt. Borah and will keep the “blue train” riding in style.
The 2009 racing season should be exciting with over 20 races on schedule not including the Midwest Cycling Series or International Cycling Classic coming up in June and July. The more races the merrier! Ride on!
No comments:
Post a Comment