Litespeed Gets Creative

Litespeed (@litespeed_bike), the sister brand of Quintana Roo (@quintanarootri) has long been associated with high-end Titanium frames, until recently. For 2012, they're expanding upon that and releasing a non-aero carbon frame, the L series (pictured above) to try and compliment their aero platform - the Archon Carbon line (C1r, C1, C2, C3 bikes).

The big surprise for 2012 however, was a couple of really nice-looking "Urban" Ti frames. The Litespeed Copenhagen (pictured with fenders, drop-bars, rack) and the Tribeca (single-speed) are are a bit out of the ordinary for the Tennessee based company, but intriguing nonetheless. It'll be interesting to see how popular these are, especially considering they will only be available as frames and retail for $2,000.

Specialized Unveils Triathlon Shiv

In what was probably one of the worst kept secrets, Specialized finally unveiled their new triathlon specific "Superbike", the Shiv. Though similar to the Shiv TT, this bike has quite a few unique features which all contribute to this bike NOT being UCI legal. My question to Specialized however: if you ignore UCI guidelines, why not go crazy with it? (Ok, somewhat rhetorical as the answer probably is, because people still have to buy it).

What does Specialized have to say about it? let's watch...

I don't think anyone would disagree when I say that Specialized has built quite a reputation in the cycling and triathlon world. Over the last couple of years, it seems as if Specialized has had a ton of momentum. Will this new project keep the momentum going? it's tough to say, and only time will tell. Below are some of the key points that caught my attention after watching the video.

"Fastest, most integrated, best fitting bike" - That's a pretty aggressive claim, and if proven, will propel this to be one of the top bikes at the Kona count in 2012. This claim however is also somewhat confusing. Typically integration and fit are not friends... even if by fit you mean your bike fitting into a travel case, which triathletes do a lot of.


"Fuelselage... traditional water bottle systems add significant disturbances to airflow" - While this is a great idea, and one that's been discussed as a possibility in the past, Cervelo just recently released a study that water bottles between the aerobars and behind the saddle may in fact, make you more aero. Did Cervelo strategically release that info once they knew Specilized had an integrated bike?


"4:1 Cross-sections" - Sure, 3:1 is aero, so does that automatically make 4:1 more aero? Specialized seems to think so. Still, some testing would go a very long way. By testing, I don't mean against previous Shiv models or Transition models, I want to see testing against all other leading triathlon/TT bikes.

"Five Frame sizes, and virtually everything on it can be adjustable in multiple ways" - Ah, stack and reach. According to the new Shiv's stack and reach, it qualifies as a "Short and Tall" somewhat similar to the Cannondale Slice (at least in a size 56). This is definitely the way to go, as "Long and Low" bikes are hard to fit, and seem to be less and less common. Furthermore, the fact that this is a "Superbike" with an integrated cockpit, it typically benefits from having a higher than normal stack due to the lack of steerer.

"Wide range of vertical and horizontal adjustability" - Unlike it's predecessor and other "Superbikes", the new Shiv will follow in the steps of Trek's Speed Concept and provide a number of adjustment options. After seeing the pictures of some of Specialized's offerings, it looks like some models won't be using the proprietary bar and stem. Bottom line is, adjustability is always good.

Here's some pictures (courtesy of Slowtwitch.com) showcasing some of the Shiv's new features

The fuelselage (integrated hydration system) with the lid on. Presumably, this will be an easy, on-the-fly hydration option.

This is where the Camelbak-like bladder fits. Not sure how easy it is to take it in and out.


Bladder easily removes for cleaning. If you look closely at the picture, though this should fit about 750ml, it doesn't look like all bike sizes use same bladder (most do).


The straw will easily stay away with a magnetic "hook". The straw looks to be quite flexible unlike the Profile Design model.


Specialized looks to be using the same brakes used on the transition. One of the big questions seems to be why is there no nosecone? Of course, referring to the nosecone outlawed by the UCI on the original Shiv.


A great image on the adjustability of the base bar. Though unclear on whether there will be different length stems, this system seems to share similarities with the Look 695 stem. Need a longer stem? just flip the shim from the front to the back and increase the reach by what appears to be 1cm.

Interbike 2011

Though the annual cycling trade show isn't what it once was, it's still fun to go and see what the industry's got to offer for the year ahead. No matter what you've seen up to that point (Eurobike), there's always surprises. If nothing more, it's good to see what you otherwise would see pictures of and of course, catch up with fellow industry folks you only talk to a few times a year. Remember it's a small industry!

This year, I wanted to take some pictures at the show. It's always a goal of mine and somehow I never get around to it. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the show.

The Look "Premium Collection" certainly caught my eye. For 2012 they'll have a series of "country bikes" representing about a dozen countries with paint to match. They'll also continue to offer the "Mondrian" edition as well as a "Black on Black" and "Greg LeMond" editions.

Here's another look at some of the Look "Premium Collection" offerings for 2012.

Dario Pegoretti had some bikes on display inside the Gita Bike booth. You've got to love his work, especially his use of color and creativity on his Ciavete frames.

Here's a shot of a nice looking commuter. An expensive looking commuter no less.

The beauty of a Pegoretti is often accentuated by the fact that it's a mix between classic "old school" with modern technology and componentry. In an cycling era where carbon bikes with bad paint jobs is the often the norm, a Pegoretti is always refreshing.

Inside the Gita booth, you can also find the popular and always-crowded Pinarello booth.

The Pinarello Graal is a traditional Time Trial machine disguised as a "Super Bike". The stem and aerobars do a good job of that. The sleek lines and paint don't hurt either.

Though not as advanced as some of the other GPS enabled computers out there. The SRM PC7 is the gold standard in the Pro-Peloton, its color options are vast and offer great customization.

Guerilla Marketing or Gorilla Marketing

If you're on facebook or twitter, you've probably seen your share of lame, overly-obvious "product placement" and promotion. Here's the scenario...

• Problem: Brand "A" usually a small, sometimes local brand needs some exposure to grow their market-share.
• Solution: Instead of devoting some time and money into an effective marketing or advertising campaign, or better yet improving its products or services, Brand "A" pimps out "Brand Ambassadors" (or insert gimmicky title here) by giving them discounts or free product.

While conceptually this approach is not a horrible idea, as sometimes smaller companies have to find creative ways of reaching the consumer. It does have the potential of turning consumers off. By potential, I mean a really good chance!

Furthermore, what type of message is a company sending to its potential customers? If Brand "A" gives its product for free for following certain steps and becoming a "Brand Ambassador", is your product really worth what you're selling it for? Will Spira be able to sell a pair of running shoes for $105 when Joe-Schmo can get them free for uploading pictures and telling his friends how "great" they are? How do you build loyalty within your customer base with this approach anyway?

The answers to these questions will vary from person to person, however in my opinion as someone in the business of selling products/services, it's the last approach I would adopt. It's annoying, it makes products look second-class, and it's bad use of Twitter, Facebook, and social media in general. Would it be too much for these companies to spend time coming up with guide-lines on how "Brand Ambassadors" can promote the product? Blatant promotion does not equate to me wanting your product. It instead keeps away from your product.

Sram Red... Wait for it... goes Black!

Since we're on the social media and marketing topic, what was up with SRAM's latest campaign? For a couple of days, I thought someone had hacked the twitter accounts of the likes of @linseycorbin, @rappstar, and @mcewenrobbie to name a couple.

Basically, Sram changed the color of the Sram Red groupo from red (well it wasn't really red to begin with) to black? Let me see if I can understand... the old Sram Red, changed to all black, but it's still Sram Red and not Sram Black? Your twitter efforts and teasers left as much to be desired as your groupo's performance. I'll stick to Campy.

Oh, in case you were wondering, I'm not a marketing expert, I just play one on TV.

Oh Lazer, How Could I Forget???

To let you in on a little secret, 50% of the reason why I started to write my winter clothing entry was because I wanted to highlight Lazer's awesome helmet covers. While it's not for the most frigid of climates, it does serve a great purpose on rainy climates as well as mild wintery places (Pacific Northwest, South West, UK, etc.). This isn't your typical giro/bell winter cover that makes any FRED look like Mario Cipollini. As a matter of fact, unless you don't know it's a cover, you'll probably not even notice it. As with many other helmet related accessories, Lazer has done a really good job with this one.

If this doesn't provide enough warmth for a Chicago or Minnesota winter ,Lazer also makes a liner that goes inside of the helmet. While I couldn't find a picture of it, I've checked with a number of retailers that say it's available for order.

Thank you for reading!

The Weather Outside is Frightful, and My Cycling Gear so Delightful....

As we approach winter across most of the US, it's time to dust off the good ol' warm clothes. If you're looking to do some riding in the cold weather, check out this list of must-haves. With the right gear, winter riding can be just as enjoyable as riding any other time of the year, maybe even more so given it's unpredictability.

Depending on the area of the country you're in, you may not need the warmest of clothes. Chances are however that you'll want a pair of tights. If money is no object, the Castelli Sorpasso Bib Tight is an excellent choice. You'll find that the Rosso Corsa tight has a pad that's flexible, comfortable, and stays dry. Furthermore, the Thermoflex and Thermoflex Core Due materials will keep the rest of your lower half both warm and dry on your winter rides. While this may not be the least expensive option out there, it's worth every penny. Castelli clothes tend to last, are stylish, and make riding comfortable even during uncomfortable days. For a budget minded rider, check out Bellwether's Thermaldress Tight with Chamois.

Now that you've got a set of tights, you'll need a warm top. We'll skip over arm warmers as those are a given for the months leading into and out of the really cold winter months. Pearl Izumi makes a number of tops ideal for winter however the P.R.O. Softshell Jacket has my vote for warmth, wind protection, fit, and aesthetics (you've got to look good while riding). The laser-cut direct-vent panels provide superior ventilation and the internal draft flap with zipper seals in warmth.

Finally, for baselayers, gloves, shoe/toe covers, and winter accessories Descente is an awesome brand. While not as popular as others, Descente is known for high quality skiing clothing and their cycling gear does not disappoint. Whether you want a beanie or balaclava they've got a couple that will do the trick. Want to keep your feet warm? Check out their Element shoe covers and winter sock. However my favorite Descente winter accessory is the Wombat Glove. The Wombat Glove is a transformer of sort giving you the option of having a five-fingered glove or a wind-proof mitten. Next time you're picking out a pair of winter gloves, spend the best $50 on gloves you'll ever spend. Your fingers will be happy.

If you have suggestions on winter gear that's tried and true, don't be shy about sharing it... until next time, stay warm out there!

Team Deals, Worthless for Shops...

If you work in the Bicycle Industry, or have been a part of one of the many cycling clubs around the country, you're probably familiar with "Team Deals" and how they work.

Right now it just happens to be that time of the year... Interbike is just around the corner, the 2010 season is basically over, new product is coming out, and most local amateur teams are getting ready to plan for next year. That means securing sponsors, riders looking to make a move, and lining up a shop/bike sponsor.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, it's unlike any other amateur sport out there, and I don't mean that in a good way. Unless average weekend warriors (cat 5, 4, 3's) thinking they're pros is somehow good.

Anyway, depending on where you live and the size of the racing community, bike shops compete against each other in order to "partner" with clubs as a sponsor. To put it more simply, a shop will offer bikes (or frames), components, accessories, etc. at significant discounts during team buy-in periods. While these team buy-ins are approved by the individual companies (ie Cannondale Bikes) and are great for team members, usually the only benefit a shop or company gets out of it is a name on a jersey/bibs... I know what you're thinking, so what?

So why is it that a bunch of average riders (in the grand scheme of things), think they're entitled to get "pro deals"? Even if you're a Cat 1 or 2 locally doesn't mean much. If you were a good rider you'd be racing alongside Guy East and if you were really good, you'd be Chad Beyer.

Who's fault is this though? If you ride a bike and belong to a cycling club, why wouldn't you want to get a smoking deal on a bike you'd otherwise be paying a lot more for? If I wasn't able to take advantage of industry discounts I certainly would want to take advantage of team buy-ins. It's simple: product A costs $100 which you can buy for $50 if you belong to Club/Team X. Ok, so I get why the riders and clubs push for this.

What about the bike shops/brands? What's in it for them? If I own a bike shop, and sell bikes near my wholesale price, how is that of benefit to me? "Well", says the club President, "there's a lot of people riding the bike that you sell and your name is on the side of our Club/Team X's jersey!". You mean to tell me that a bike that otherwise I could have made an extra $X, I can sell for less and you get to wear a jersey with my name on it? Is that supposed to be a good thing??? Who goes to the races by the way? Is it not a bunch of other racers that belong to a team and get "team deals" as well? How does this marketing strategy work then?

The point of all this is not to blame it on the consumer. Until brands such as Cannondale, BH, Colnago, X, Y, Z, etc. and bike shops don't quit doing this, the whole industry is going to continue to work this way. These consumers aren't dumb, they know they get to use a bike/frame for a season and then flip it on Craigslist or eBay to make their money back. The problem is, this floods the market! So when companies complain that you're not ordering as much as you used to... just let them know, they've made their bed, now they've got to lie in it.