Two Wheel Blogs

So we did an uphill detour when we saw a road sign to this little French village (on the way up Col de la Madeleine).

The Dauphiné Libéré is a pretty famous race that passes near me in the North French Alps.

I had the good fortune to watch three mountain stages live.

It's truly exciting watching a big event up a mountain. Loads of people cycle up the hills. People camped or picnicking on the hill cheer everyone. A publicity caravan comes by and throws out souvenirs (if anyone is a Credit Agricole Fan I will mail them a hat - I have an extra).

I first got into cycling in the Alps after watching a Tour de France stage near home. And this year's tremendously exciting Dauphiné just added to my love of the sport.

I fully understand how lucky I am to live where I do. And I have been taking full advantage of that good fortune.

Just a few photos:

Feel free to mock me:

After a coffee atop one of the steeper climbs in France, I got on my bike - and was putting stuff in my back pocket.

I suddenly realized I was going pretty fast, used left hand on front brake and went right over the top.

X-Rays showed broken nose. My VERY sore shoulder is not broken or anything so hopefully OK.

What an idiot. :)

Talking about steep hills is often a little like fishermen describing the size of their catch.

But I have proof for a stretch on today's ride. Some really great cycling currently in the Alps.

The Wife:

Photo: 

As some of you talk about racing season and cycling quotes, in case you have not heard of it, I thought I'd mention my absolutely favorite cycling book.

"The Rider" by Tim Krabbe

It's the first-person account of a rider in a European amateur road race. The entire book is what goes through his mind during the race.

The rider struggles, exalts, fantasizes about riding with ex-legends and examines each of his competitors strengths and weaknesses, all as the race progresses through different stages. It's just a great read.

On page one is perhaps my favorite quote of all time:

"Tourists and locals are watching from sidewalk cafés.

Non-Racers.
The emptiness of those lives shocks me"

It's available at Amazon.com

I saw this getting voted up DIGG today. I doubt this guy is doing a century and not sure if it will catch on ....

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