Larisa Chinces – pedalnorth

Designing Cycle Shoes for Women

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 12:54:32 +0000

Women's Cycling

The difference
with Women's feet

Designing Cycling Shoes for Women

Recognising the Differences

Robert Thorpe & Diane Vilarem

In case you haven’t noticed it, women are built differently from men – it’s a fact. All too often, historically, brands have simply produced downsized products for women, and have failed either deliberately or otherwise, to recognise the physiological differences. Yes, the cycling world simply used a ‘Pink it & Shrink it’ mentally, failing to understand the specific needs of women as athletes. Take the human leg for example; the most hardworking elements of the body. There are significant differences between the structure and support of a male leg and female leg. Did you know for instance, that women’s knees are generally stabilised more by ligaments, whilst in men, this is a more muscular stabilisation process.

The angle between the thigh muscle and the patellar tendon is known as the ‘Q Angle’ and is naturally higher in women. What this means is that an increased Q Angle – caused by a wider pelvis in women – can lead to knee pain, which then leads to foot pain. Yes, these seemingly small differences between men and women ultimately mean that we need to design cycling shoes that work to support how women’s bodies operate – both on and off the bike.

Three Significant Issues for Female Feet

Chatting with Hutch, the chief designer at Lake Cycling Shoes, and my own ‘go-to-guy’ for all things technical, he tells me that there are 3 significant differences with the female foot, and which he’s used to design out Lake Cycling ‘Women’s Foot Last’, on which Lake havee built their range of women’s specific shoes.

Women’s Heels are narrower than a men’s heel
Instep is higher
Ball of Foot is wider

These of course are in general, and of course there are variations, as you’re a unique person – which is why at Lake Cycling, they love designing shoes just for you.

One impact factor on women’s feet is that they tend to from as young girls and women grow, based on the footwear that contains them. This is why we often see wider feet and bunions in women looking at cycling shoes, who’ve worn certain shoe types in the life, with heels and restricted footwear developing significant foot issues. When we see a woman who has spent most of her time in sports and athletics, then they tend not to have these issues. Their feet tend to be narrower and have a lower in-step; however, take this with a note of caution due to our uniqueness which should always be considered. That’s why the people at Lake love to see your fee and to measure them before they wrap you in their legendary comfort.

Lake Cycling ‘Women’s Foot Last’

Brands like Lake have been designing and creating the world’s best cycling shoes for over 40 years now. That means that they’ve built up a wealth of knowledge and expertise in what a cycling shoe should do and how it should perform for different people. That’s why they produce so many different width options and such a variety of shoes. As I keep saying, and it’s always worth repeating; you’re a unique person, and if you’re a woman, Lake believe that you deserve to be acknowledged – which is why they design some of our best cycling shoes just for you. Let’s take a look a few of the Lake Cycling Shoes specifically for women.

CX 302 WOMEN’S

This superb road cycling shoe comes with a women’s CX /TX Last. The higher cadence & longer ride times which characterize road cycling require excellent foot control to avoid hot spots & numbness. With a much closer fit than any of our off-road lasts, our Sport Last cradles the foot securely to prevent any unwanted movement. This ‘Last’ features a precisely fitted toe-box, high arch & mid width ball girth, all of which are refined in this model for the elements we mentioned earlier regarding women’s feet.

It has a carbon fibre sole, which is available in a 3-hole cleat pattern. The CX 302 utilizes Lake’s patent double sole system. The inner sole is a semi flexible carbon fibre platform, that allows the foot to have some flexibility at the ball of the foot where the foot tends to swell, and typically hot spots or numbness would occur. The inner sole is then suspended over the outer rigid carbon sole. This system enables us to use an extremely stiff carbon outsole without sacrificing riding comfort, producing a cycling shoe that is both performance oriented and which provides women’s feet with ultimate cycling comfort. The upper has Clarino Microfiber and mesh, with a Carbitex Medial Support panel for a super secure fit. It’s all finished off with a dual BOA closure system, which allows you to bring in the upper at different pressures across the foot, creating a second skin feeling. Best of all, because we know that it’s important – it’s also a super stylish shoe, like you!

CX 403 WOMEN’S

The Lake CX 403 is a technical performance shoe for cycling, and this women’s specific model, once again takes on board those 3 critical biometric differences with women’s feet. Like the CX 302, this shoe uses the CX / TX Last for women, making sure that, when performance is important to you, we consider every aspect – and that we recognise the important needs of female cyclists.

The shoe features a slightly narrower toe box and tighter heel than the Competition Last, and less overall volume than the Sport Last. It’s a shoe designed for very high-cadence riding and higher-pressure riding, and it comes in a race ready slimer fit. It has a custom carbon fibre sole and Carbitex OmniFlex Carbon Fibre Stabilizer Support panels, which help to keep the foot stabilized, control stretch and allow for that all-important increased power transfer. It’s also a shoe that can be heated and moulded closely to your heel meaning that this shoe can be heated and moulded to your feet.

Badly fitting shoes lose power, and the ability to closely mould the CX 403 to your feet, maximises power transfer and performance. Along with the super stiff sole, it’s a shoe that will wrap your feet in ultimate on-the-bike comfort, whilst delivering results in racing. Thanks to the exceptional fit, your foot stays firmly planted with every pedal stroke.

The Biggest Growth in Global Cycling is Women

Whatever dataset you look at, women’s cycling is increasing faster than any other area of our sport. Support for this growth is finally coming from the cycling industry, and here at Lake they’ve always believed in supporting the individuality of all cyclists. Their wide range of the world’s best cycling shoes are designed to help guide you on your new spring and summer cycling adventures, this year and long into the future. Why not visit one of the Lake global retail partners, wherever you are, and let Lake give you that well-deserved foot love, and wrap your feet in the finest women’s cycling shoes in the world – because you’re so worth it!

* This blog first appeared on the Lake Cycling website in Spring 2023

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Lake CX 177 Road Cycling Shoes and Larisa Chinces

Pedalnorth Website — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 19:47:04 +0000

Cycling with Lake Shoes – CX 177

by Larisa Chinces

Riding the roads with my Lake CX 177 cycling shoes

Lake Cycling Shoes work with cyclists and athletes all over the world, using their knowledge and experience to bring you the best cycling shoes in the world. One of their ambassadors is our own editor, Larisa Chinces; a Masters graduate in sports education, a former international speed skater, and multiple national champion, racing at junior level, before taking up cycling and racing on both road and trail – so she knows about kit needing to perform.

Living in the mountainous region of Transylvania, in Romania, Larisa has easy access to steep and challenging roads. Her bike and her kit, all has to perform and to be comfortable. Let’s find out what Larisa thinks of the new Lake Cycling CX 177 road cycling shoes.

Larisa Chinces – Riding in the Mountains

As an athlete, I love being active, and I love the mountains. When the temperatures drop lower and the wet and rainy weather will be most likely, it won’t be possible to cycle outside for a while. The snow will come and for safety and for the cold, we’ll have time retreat and to cycle indoors or ski – not so bad I guess. For now though, I’m trying to ride as much as I can, and to use my Red Chilli bike as often as time allows. It’s colder already though, and sometimes the roads are damp and slippery, bringing dangers. Sometimes it’s nice and sometimes the rain catches me on the route. Kit is important, and not just tyres. I need to feel comfortable and confident, and concentrate on the road.

Comfort, Performance & Style in Equal Measures

Wearing my new CX 177 cycling shoes by Lake, my ride is a great way to test these too, and to get used to them. They’re stylishly beautiful, with a simple design of white with black small details and the Lake logo on them. The Lake CX 177 are a really comfortable cycling shoe for women, due to its high-quality fabrics, the wider shape and fit, and the use of BOA technology to help in wrapping my feet. The CX177 features form fitting and durable microfiber and mesh upper, with a comfortable and secure BOA® closure, which utilizes Carbitex tongue panels for reduced friction lace adjustment. For me, it means that it’s an ultra-comfortable cycling shoe, without reducing performance. They’re also super light and classy, and stylish with all my clothing, and hey-that’s important too, as I’m a woman!

Technology in Design to Aid Performance

I’ve taken them on some long rides already, and I’m very pleased with how they feel and look. The CX 177 is a super stable and firm shoe on the pedal too, with the fiberglass injected nylon sole. Lake’s Nylon sole is world famous for its uncompromising comfort and performance. No other injection nylon sole offers the same level of stiffness or comfort. It means that I can power up the hills and keep my feet well placed as I negotiate the more technical roads.

Best of all, they match with my helmet colour and as I say, also with my diverse cycling outfits. As a woman cyclist and as an athlete, there’s a balance to be found between comfort, performance and style. My Lake Cycling CX 177 road shoes gives me all of this, leaving me to simply concentrate on my ride, as I leave the hills and begin to turn home towards historic Sibiu. Cycling is important to me, and having the right kit is critical – which is why I love riding in Lake Cycling shoes.

Ladies Cold Weather Cycle Clothing by Alé

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:04:51 +0000

Ladies Cold Weather Cycle Clothing by Alé

Larisa Chinces

Wrapped in style – with Alé Cycling

When Alé Cycling launched their Fall-Winter 2022/23 collection, it was designed just for these time periods. However, they made it so well, that’s it’s also perfect for early spring, which is why I’m still wearing it in Transylvania.

The range has lots of great garments: breathable, protective, comfortable cycle clothing for all weather conditions, where colours and design stands out at first sight. The style is based on art in textile engineering, to offer jerseys, bib tights, jackets, underwear, and accessories that improve the cyclist’s performance in lower temperatures – like early spring too. The theme of the new collection is “No matter the season”: an invitation to go cycling without worrying about weather conditions.

I always look forward to and like the feeling of fresh new kit to test. I get excited when opening a box with new kit! Feels like opening a present – Hehe. Well, the new kit I will talk about today is from a well-known Italian elite cycling brand Alé Cycling, who work with the best riders in the world. The new range is improved on their already excellent standards, and it all looks awesome. Alé always had colourful and unique designs for their cycling apparel. As you know, I am in love with the colour blue/turquoise and I already have 3 jackets from them, which are absolutely superb (you can find the articles and pics in my blog section). However, this year I made a change in my colour preferences – see below what I chose.

1. KLIMATIK K-TORNADO 2.0 – Water repellent long sleeve jacket woman

What attracted me to this jacket is its bright pink colour which you can hear screaming “SEE ME” on the road while it’s traffic. Brilliant idea, I thought to myself; this way, the drivers can see me better – especially now, when the weather is colder, and the colours of nature haven’t appeared yet. The developed technology by Ale for this jacket is their Klimatik design fabrics: the best possible protection against any type of climate. It’s windproof, made with different portions of material joined together for the best performance and best comfort. Its textile composition is made of a high-quality external fabric: 86% polyester, 14% elastane; internal fabric: 90% polyester, 10% elastane; non-textile membrane: 100% polytetrafluoroethylene.

The front, bright pink area is made with a softshell material to protect from the frontal incoming wind or little raindrops. It has shorter length in comparison with the back, because usually when you lean forward in riding position the jacket/jersey piles up if the length is too long. A light “A” shape at the front bottom, gives it a nice hourglass feminine fit too – which I like. Also in the front, the zipper is covered, giving it a more stylish and elegant look. The collar is generously wide and comfortable, with thermal panel on the back of the neck and thermal brushed collar liner to keep warm. These little details matter and show the attention that the brand give to their clothing.

However, the back area from the shoulders down and under arms has different material. More breathable fabrics but protects from humidity. The back and under arms get more sweat than the other parts of the body, and this different material keeps it breathable and dry. The length is more long to protect and cover good the lower back area from the wind. Has 3 rear spacious rear pockets with reflective details which are also designed more discreet and not so obviously visible finishes off with a silicone waist band to keep the jacket in place during movements while riding.

The fit and feel is almost like a jersey, but due to a 3-layer fabric, it protects like a rain jacket. EVENT membrane and DWR treatment has been used to make this jacket to ensure high breathability and thermal insulation even in wet conditions. K-TORNADO 2.0 jacket folds perfectly with body form and movement while riding due to bonded fabrics and body mapping technology. For comfort the best temperatures to ride are between 6°and 12°c. For intermediate climatic conditions, you can enjoy wearing it in late autumn, winter and early spring.

2. PR-R PYRAMID – Jacket woman

PR. R comes from Alé’s first-ever line, designed for the teams and immediately becoming their classic for its ergonomic race fit and innovative technologies. This Alé Pyramid jacket is similar to Klimatik K-Tornado but full thermal, windproof and designed to ride in lower temperatures. It is constructed too with multi-panel technique and the placement of the fabrics make this jacket breathable and highly protective, therefore suitable for rides which require high intensity effort.

Riding outside in cold windy temperatures is no problem due to the 3layer fabric with Windtex membrane that protects from the wind. On the inside it has soft internal fleece, with micro-square structure which permits quick ventilation of the sweat to get away from the skin. Its main composition is 87% polyester, 13% elastane. Technical and refined details complete the jacket’s performances. You can wear it with a long sleeve base layer when the temperature is near freezing in winter or with a sleeveless thinner baselayer if the temperature is more than 12 degrees Celsius.

I like the race fit so much, and it suits my riding style. It’s very comfortable for intensive rides and extreme temperatures. I really like the race tight fit rather than the regular or loose fit. You can really enjoy the comfort and feel during the rides, thanks to the body mapping technology that makes it feel like a second skin. Also, a common trait that Alé clothes have, specifically the women’s culottes, which are more flared on the form of the female body. It’s a very feminine brand, whilst retaining its performance credentials. The front length is shorter than the back and it stays put due to a silicone waist band. Underarm it had a different material covered with fleece on the inside, to help sweat from underarm area to ventilate. The cuffs are wide enough and raw-cut without sewn edge and anatomically shaped for maximum comfort.

In the back it has got 3 rear discrete, but spacious pockets for the necessities during rides, plus reflective logo on the middle pocket. The unique graphic design fully embodies the modern and technical image of Alè®. The front zipper has a protective internal flap, and it has the cam-lock feature – it means the zipper moves only when held in horizontal position and will not slide up and down during movement. The collar has a thermal padded panel all around the neck and in the back area the material is a little bit longer to cover the knack properly. This feature is made to protect from the wind and sweat which can be uncomfortable during the ride.

3. R-EV1 FUTURE WARM – Bib tights woman

First of all, we all need good tights with good qualities. It is the key to long comfortable rides. However, these are not just regular cycling bib tights. What makes them special and made me curious about them, is their unique concept design. Due to its exclusive wraparound microfibre mono-bib strap eliminates the discomfort caused by the straps around chest area. This is something new for me to try on, as I’ve been using only regular 2 strap bibs. When style meets quality, Alé has it without doubt. The bibs name – R-EV1 – comes from a capsule collection that offers the best textile technology available today.

B-HOT THERMO DWR (durable water repellent) is a special fabric that helps heating and thermoregulate the skin. Around the waist until right under the chest there is a bodice, the front part is made from see-through fleeced mesh which keeps the abdomen warm but ventilated. The rest of the bodice, which is around the back and sides, is made of a thicker fleece non-see-through, which keeps you warm even more. Right in the middle of the back there is a space or “hole” and on the right side there is a relatively small pocket which can fit a car key for example. The top of the bodice is finished with a wide thin band which continues up in the frontal part hanging around the neck. The strap is raw cut which is very comfortable while wearing. The mono strap feature makes possible to undress and dress without needing to take off the jersey or jacket.

Another benefit to these bibs is that they have a waterproof leg cuff. The rainproof leg cuffs can be worn over the shoe cover to protect against dirt and road splashes. It perfectly protects from wind and cold too – the length reaches the mid-calf. Overall, the bib tights are made from multiple panels –each different with a specific role – to ensure the best ergonomic fit and comfort. Alé used the flatlock stitching’s technique for a more comfortable feel. Riding outside in the cold or light rain is acceptable thanks to the DWR fabric which covers the bib tights whole, keeping the legs warm and protected. Two reflective details are put specifically on the back of the tights to be more visible on road.

Now, let’s get to the chamois. Most people never check the chamois, which is why they buy wrong ones. For me personally, the Alé chamois has always been the first choice. I’ve always recommended their products based on my testing. When it comes to chamois, I only have compliments to say. They are one of the best chamois so far and trust me I have lots of kits. Alé understand the importance of the chamois, which is why they developed their own and patented it. From my perspective, it’s super comfortable and worth all their effort. The pad’s velocity is up to 8h of comfort. It’s light, slim and works in the right areas – no more details required. Why not try yourself and see what I’m talking about?

This new and improved collection shows a contemporary and distinctive look, and you can find it on their website and in all the good stores. Personally, I think that it’s a super stylish and performance orientated range of cycle clothing, that fits where it should and makes me feel awesome on the bike. At the end of the day, that’s possibly the best recommendation possible!

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ALE Ladies Cold Weather Accessories 2023

Pedalnorth Website — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:33:19 +0000

Cold Weather Cycle Clothing for Ladies

by Larisa Chinces

The importance of accessories – Ale Cycling

Dressing up for the ride can be a little tricky in a cold weather season, because the temperature and the feel can change quickly during the ride. Once the sun is under the clouds, it’s much colder, and so, we have to dress smart. The base layer and accesories like gloves, necktube, shoe cover, socks are equally important as the main kit when choosing how to dress-up for the ride. They can improve your ride due to their protective features. Let’s see some of the essentials from Italian quality brand Alé.

INTIMO KLIMA – Long sleeve base layer for women

This baselayer is made for cold weather and winter rides between -2°/10°c, meaning that it’s also perfect for late autumn and early spring. Even when you are sweating lots from trainig, the material doesn’t stay wet, due to great wicking properties. It is what you need when you ride.; being able to perform hard and yet stay dry and comfortable. To be honest I use it at ski too, it’s so good – haha.

It’s important to mention that the Alé base layer is also environmentally friendly. That’s a really critical point for me and my colleagues here at Pedalnorth. Made from high quality italian fabrics, with seamless technology for this base layer, and with panels of diversified intensity without seams, using body mapping. It’s a highly technical garment, and it feels it – just awesome.

Alé have used technology from SENSIL® the “Nilit Heat” which is verified to absorb and manage moisture and neutralize odors due to the specially crafted coffee charcoal and oxide additive integrated into the yarn. It also absorbs and captures body heat for an extended period of time. During the rides I could feel its benefits. Excellent breathability and thermal insulation, plus antibacterial material. Also whenyou get sweaty from the ride, the fabrics dry quickly. Best of all… I still smell kind of okay

They used manufacturing technologies like circular Knitting and warp Knitting, or even weaving for the best comfort as possible. Different knitting techniques for different parts of the body, using the body mapping expertise gained form working with the top teams and fabric scientists. It’s all very technical these days, and it shows when riding, as I love wearing the base. Under arms and the lower back where we sweat most are made with a thicker material and different seam. It is very streatchable and light with only 175g becuase its main fabric is made from 58% polyamide, 30% polyprophylene, 6% carbon fiber, 6%elasthan. It feels like a second skin and looks terrific!

KLIMATIK GUSCIO RACING – Rainproof jacket woman

Another must have item on the list! I don’t go anywhere without a rainproof jacket. No matter where I go and what type of ride I do (mtb or road), the rain jacket is absolutely essential. It’s very light and I can fold and pack it in my rear pocket or in a tiny bike seat bag. It’s also very light at 180g, which is almost like a baselayer but protective like a shell. It can be worn in the summer too when you go to ride in the mountains. The minimum recommended temperatures to wear it for comfort are from 6°until 18°c. I know that Robert also loves the men’s version, and says the same as me regarding how useful it is. The main fabric it is composed from 73% polyamide, 27% elastane and the non-textile membrane is 100% polyurethane. Made with Idro-tech 2L (water column 15.000mm/24h), it keeps water sliding off, yet also gives super breathability. The zipper is coated waterproof and due to the thermo taped seams, it prevents water from entering. Around the waist, it has a nice silicone tape which keeps the jacket in place and is really comfortable. It finishes off with a small reflective logo on the lower back for high visibility in low-light conditions. I like the feel when I wear it, and even though it is water repellant, the material is stretchable enough to feel comfortable while I’m working hard and moving. It feels very light on my skin and best of all, it doesn’t flap when I ride, due to the slim fit design. Every detail is so well thought out and the superior quality fabrics used are super. It is without doubt, a must have in your back pocket for your adventures on two wheels.

Accesories to complete the outfit!

We ladies need the right accessories to complete the outfit. Thankfully, Ale make some of the very best. Here’s a few additions that I’ve been wearing along with the baselayer and waterproof jacket.

K-ATMO – Tubular for head/neck for cold temperatures and a wet climate. It’s super stylish and super easy to breathe thr,ough it but also protects from cold and humidity. It’s so good that I also use it when skiing!

NORDIK 2.0 – Gloves: These gloves are improved from previous versions, and are more windproof, with a softshell and an ergonomic fit. What’s really good,is that I can use my phone when wearing them, as they’re designed to use them on a touch screen device due to its touch-compatible printed anti-slip silicone on the palm – which actually works.

KLIMATIK – Shoe covers: These covers are my personal favorites, because it has a simple design with black matte color. It looks very good on the shoes, modern and stylishly simple, and gives the outfit a complete look! They’re also very protective, being super windproof and waterproof. Easy to put on, and easy to remove, they’re strong and have a super zip, and have just the right amount of stretch.

Ale have done a great job with their latest cold weather clothing and accessories. The quality does seem to be improving all the time, with body-mapping being really evident now. It’s always tricky in cold weather, staying comfortable whilst dry and warm and being stylish too. However, these new items from the Ale range are spot on, and I love them!

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Romania MTB – Rasinari to Paltinis Hills

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 10:42:02 +0000

Ride the Transylvania Trails

Transylvania Mountain Biking in the Paltinis Hills

The mountains around the Paltinis resort are covered in magnificent forests, with isolated meadows and mountain tops. There’s a wealth of trails to explore, and this one is just a short distance from historic Sibiu, a World Heritage Site, and its endless accommodation options. It’s a great base for a superb cycling holiday, with its own international airport only a 15 minute taxi ride from the centre of the old town.

This ride starts from the old Saxon village of Rasinari and climbs steadily towards Paltinis, whilst not visitng the resort. Instead, it continues around the mountian tops, before descending on a fast and sometimes technical trail, back to Rasinari.

Route Information

Stats 31 km 999 metres

Refreshments & Where to Stay

Sibiu is nearby, and as a world renowned tourist hotspot, it has everything that you need: great hotels and apartments, great places to eat and a super nightlife. On the ride, take snacks and drinks with you, as this is a mountain area.

Character

This route has a long and winding climb into the hills, that requires a good level of fitness. However, your efforts are rewarded, with unbelievable views and an epic and extra long descent. There’s a few technical sections, where you need to take care, but it’s a case of letting the bike have some fun

Route

1. Make sure to park sensibly in the village of Rasninari, and then follow the trail that heads alongside the Steaza River and climbs.

2. When you are 2 km from Paltinis, the tracks merge and you need to head left and keep climbing.

3. Follow the high trail as it passes mountain meadows and skirts between Varful Plaiului and Varful Barnelor. The trail then twists into the trees and leads you back to Rasinari

Click below for GPX file

Download GPX

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Bike Box Alan EasyFit on Team Training Camp

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 12:29:50 +0000

Bike Box Alan Easy Fit

Sicilian Adventures

Visit BBA

Team Training camp in delightful Sicily, Italy

by Alex Sabin, Bike Expert Team, Romania

Us cyclists like to travel and specially to explore new routes and trails by bike. However, it can be difficult to transport the bike. It’s precious and important, our bike, and we don’t want it damaged . It’s often very difficult and inconvenient to disassemble the entire bike into pieces, and then to put it in a cardboard bike box. It’s not very well protected, and complicated to transport and takes up a lot of unnecessary space.

Easy Fit Box & MTB

With the opportunity to use a BikeBoxAlan recently, everything became much easier. I’d simply been talking with Larisa, an ambassador for them, having seen her bike box, and I was intrigued.; especially since you can also fit a Mtb into their Easy Fit box. For a road bike it’s even simpler. You just remove the pedals, wheels and lower the saddle and viola!

Yes, when Larisa offered her BBA Easy Fit for me to try, I found it much easier to transport, much simpler to pack the bike, and it’s very safe – especially in case of an accident. They’re the strongest boxes in the world, and they look indestructible.

Travel to Train – Sicily

When it’s cold in your home country and you are fed up with the low temperatures, you can – and you ought to – pack your bags and your bike, and “fly to warmer lands”. Just like that. As Nike say:,”Just do it!” It can be quite accessible and very easy, and with the warm sun to look forward, or a competitive race, it’ll also warm your cycling heart! Fly from Bucharest to Palermo, then with the bus Trapani and then with the car to San Vito Lo Capo – done.

San Vito Lo Capo is a small seaside town in northwestern Sicily, Italy. It’s known for its beach, which is on a sheltered bay overlooked by Mount Monaco. The small town is located in a valley between mountains; and, the mountain itself is home to numerous caves, most of which are inaccessible without professional climbing gear. A cave, accessible by foot at the southern base of the mountain, was named “Caverna della Capra Guasto,” or “Cave of the Dead Goat” by explorers Christian D’Angelo and William Spears. San Vito Lo Capo is a well-known rock climbing destination. Along the coast on the west side of San Vito lo Capo is a coastal cliff nearly 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) long featuring as many as 1600 bolted climbing routes. Anyway, you get the picture – it’s a great destination.

Palermo-Trapani proves to be a real paradise for mountain biking, but also for the road. Single-trail paths without number, along with descents to Enduro, all in a tropical background, and with cycling climbs of all categories. Untraveled paved roads, where you sometimes forget you’re pedaling. I don’t know if it’s the excitement of the training, the place, the fact that I can train in the heat while it’s cold in the country… The fact is that everything goes according to the book and I think that can help a lot on the mental side as well.

Winter Warm Training

For the second part of the team training course in Sicily, we chose to change accommodation; thus to benefit from a new area of training and exploration. I think this can also be a good way to prepare for the upcoming season. Always have something new and always be able to make decisions. Train on as many types of surfaces and conditions as possible. For the Mtb marathon, at least, it’s very important to always be prepared. So, Cefalu is our new choice.

The landscape is changing quite a bit there, these days. We leave the somewhat tropical image of San Vito and find a more Mediterranean air, with a more clayey soil on the coast, but stony and technical in the high area. Also, the altitude is definitely increasing. With peaks of 1900, where there is installed snow from 1500m. We only have the climbs from 0m to 1200m. Gentle, drastic, brutal climbs… All kinds. Mostly paved. But also many forest roads and paths just waiting to be explored. And a very good recovery flat on the coast.

All in all, Sicily… you are delightful!

This destination of the training camp came out of the blue. I was looking for a good mtb place, a less popular area, but also warm enough. In the end it turned out to be the coolest camp I’ve ever been to. Maybe because of the landscape, the people, the ridge, the extraordinary Cannoli or… Who knows, I’ll leave it to you to discover However, there is a big difference between the Catania area and Palermo. The first is much more cramped and arid. While in the western part everything is already more tropical, more Hawaiian

The Best Bike Box in the World

And, best of all, I had no concerns or worries about transporting my bike – thanks to BikeBoxAlan. It’s a great relief being able to simply concentrate on having fun, and preparing for the season ahead. I’m a big fan of the BBA Easy Fit now, and I’ll be telling everyone about it – and, hopefully using it again on my competitive travels this year

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Take a trip to Romania

Alé Cycling PRE Play Jersey and Magic Colour Bib Shorts

Lake CX 177 Road Cycling Shoes and Larisa Chinces

Ladies Cold Weather Cycle Clothing by Alé

ALE Ladies Cold Weather Accessories 2023

Red Chilli Interactive

Pedalnorth Website — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 16:16:58 +0000

Red Chilli Interactive

by Larisa Chinces

Red Chilli interactive

Christmas holidays have passed, and me and my family had a wonderful time. We all gorged ourselves with delicious food and drinks, pretty much of the time, spending time at the table with relatives and friends. New Year came with a fresh start (and 1-2kgs extra) and new resolutions plans for most of us. This winter was atypical here in Transylvania. The snow came really late and very little of it. This is causing me problems, because the conditions for skiing are very poor and from what I’ve heard, it doesn’t happen only here. The global warming is becoming more and more present unfortunately, and yes, we all need to do more.

But enough with the negative things and let’s concentrate on what we can do for ourselves. We need to get out and to get fit again.. – so, off we go!

Red Chilli & Elite Interactive Trainers

This month I’ve set up my RedChilli bike on the Elite Smart Trainers. Red Chilli hasn’t been used on the indoor trainer before. It was interesting to see how it performed. It’s the first time that I try the trainers with this bike. The trainers I have from Elite are Elite Direto XR and Elite Nero Rollers – both are the top of the range from Elite and are compatible with all of the top trainer apps and programmes: Trainer Road, RGT, Zwift etc. It’s been a while since I’ve cycled and I’ve missed it. Even though we don’t have so much snow at the moment the weather here isn’t so cycling-friendly either. Let’s pedal!

Setting up the RedChilli on the Direto XR was easy peasy lemon squeeze. I had to remove the old cassette which was on the trainer, because it was for a 10 speed cassette from my previous Scott. So, I put the trainer’s original 11 speed cassette and voila. I had done it myself – I only borrowed the necessary tools for removing the cassette and put the new one on. It was the first time I’ve done such a thing, and I admit it wasn’t hard at all. The cassette is now on, and now it’s time to put the new bike on. Thankfully, it was also easy and took little time. It was exciting ti see the Chilli ready to ride indoors. After I had fixed it on the trainer, I made a few adjustments on the rear shifter (the boys from the bike shop I worked at taught me), and everything was running smoothly.

Indoor Action – Outdoor Performance

All things nice and smooth, and in a blink of an eye I see myself enjoying the new bike on the trainer. As I wrote in my previous articles about the RedChilli, the bike geometry makes it really comfortable to ride weather outdoors or indoors since it was specially made for my measurements. It is even silent and discrete, and it won’t bother my family or neighbours. The interactive rollers were easy to setup too. I didn’t need to make any changes, just place it where I want to train, lock it, start it et voila! Cycling rollers are great in their most basic form, as they work the core muscles so well, and help to improve your pedal action. Using the Elite Nero rollers, I’m able to stay warm and dry indoors and to set myself goals and training targets.

I know that the feeling from the trainer can’t compete with the real feeling on the road etc. but it is what it is and we can make the most of it from this experience. Nowadays the technology is more developed and it makes the whole trial more and more interactive and real. With the Elite MyETraining App, you can actually train like on the roads that you are preparing for, as next races or next bike trips. It’s called Elite Real Video and you can ride to an interactive film of climbs and rides around the world, making it a great realistic training experience.

The great thing about cycling indoors this year, is having the Red Chilli. The rollers seem smoother and easier, and I’m more comfortable on the Direto, as the geometry of the Red Chilli was made for me. It means that I can truly concentrate on my pedal action, perfecting it and getting the maximum from my training and each pedal stroke, through the great new bike from Red. Hills and my super comfortable Lake carbon sole shoes too. More of my energy is transferred to the bike and it’s fun for me to challenge myself. Yes, having a custom fit Red Chilli makes a huge difference

Training for Challenges

I am currently preparing and training for 2 events this summer: Transfagarsan Challenge and Paltinis Challenge – both tough amateur cycling races. The routes are about only climbing, and very long climbs too. T-Challenge is on road only and it will take place on the 7th of July 2023. It’s about 37km with 1570m elevation and it reaches a peak altitude of 2.042m. Also, for Paltinis Challenge the route is 19 kilometres and 900m elevation. You have 2 option to choose the type of the race for Paltinis – road or offroad. I like both. The Paltinis climb on road, well… it’s also challenging, even though it’s shorter than Taransfagarasan Road; some of the sections of climbs are steeper, which really challenges your abilities and strength – mental and physical.

Being able to simulate this kind of ride, and setting the routes on the trainers is such a huge opportunity, and will help me so much. Make sure that you register for both of these events and have a wonderful experience plus visiting my bautiful hometown Sibiu from Transylvania- it’s a magical place.

Anyway, enough writing for today – get on your bike and pedal to the Metal ! \m/

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Trans Bai Trail Romania

Pedalnorth Website — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 12:58:19 +0000

Ride Romania

TransBai Trail

Larisa Chinces, Editor

Trans Bai Trail, Baiului Mountains

Transylvania and Romania have some of the most spectacular and beautiful mountains in the world. Best of all, they’re accessible to adventure seekers, and I love living here This mtb trail follows the TransBai trail, a highway in the Baiului Mountains, a truly magical wilderness. The Transbai connects three important tourist attractions: the Azuga and Busteni resorts on Prahova Valley and Valea Doftanei commune. The roads unite in the Baiului Mountains’ alpine meadow, near Cazacu Peak, at an altitude of 1753 meters.

We’ve created a route that climbs up and visits the mountain lake of Lacul Orjogoaia, enjoying epic views here and at Culmea Petru-Orjogoaia before dropping back down the mountain meadows to return to the start at Valea Doftanei by a second mountain river path.

Brasov is close by, and my own home city, historic Sibiu is nearby too, meaning that you can fly here from all over Europe and explore more trails on your visit. For now though, let’s go exploring together, along the TransBai

Route Information

Stats 38 km 1,112 metres total ascent

Refreshments & Where to Stay

Brasov is nearby and is a superb base to explore the area and the mountain trails. Click the link on this page to Booking.com and you’ll see lots of different accommodation options to choose from. In terms of eating and refreshments on route, take plenty with you, as this is a mountain trip. Valea Doftanei where it starts and finishes does have options before and after the ride

Character

This is a climbing route, with steep and long ascents in the mountains. be prepared and make sure that you are fit enough and that you have the ability to cope with the mountain terrain. It also has some super long descents, so you’ll end up smiling.

Route

The great thing about the mountains of Romania is that there are signs everywhere, helping you to stay on track. However, don’t take things for granted, and know how to navigate. Take a map and compass and know how to use them.

1. Leave Valae Doftanei and climb through the trees to the higher mountain meadows. Follow the signs towards Lake Orjogoaia (at 12 km), the mountain lake, and climb to the high meadows for epic views.

2. Continue to Culmea Petru-Orjogoaia, across the mountain meadows. Continue climbing steadily to the 21.4 km point, where a track to the left is taken, which begins a descent, with forests initially to your left, until you enter the trees at 24 km.

3. Continue descending, and the track soon joins the Prislop River, where a better trail continues to descent, following the line of the river, all the way back to Valae Doftanei.

Click below for GPX file

Download GPX

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Rosti Alpina Ladies Jersey and Pro 1 Shorts

Pedalnorth Website — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:40:18 +0000

Rosti Alpina Ladies Jersey & Pro Shorts

by Larisa Chinces

Ladies ss Alpina Jersey

What’s greater than hearing the word “summer”? Actually nothing, because when it’s summer, it’s the most wanted season of all time. Green is the predominant colour now, and the temperatures are supposed to be around 25-30 degrees for a couple of months. If you have limited summer like me, for only 3 months, this period it’s the best to ride, so you better enjoy it! Fresh breeze from the trees and perfume from the flowers, warm sunshine on skin, clean dry road, what else – you want more?!

Let’s get back to the topic. Influenced by the colours of the high mountain meadows in Italy, this stylish and modern short sleeved jersey oozes quality, in both the design and the fabrics. Rosti have created a superb and quite unique design in their Alpina jersey, which evokes Edelweiss, snow drop, lily of the valley, buttercup, rhododendron, winter rose, gentianella, genepì: all the colours, all the fragrances of the most inebriating experience, mountain blossom.

Technicity, Design and Fit

In terms of the fit and fabric, it’s a race fit design with multi-directional fabrics, meaning that it fits where it touches and shows your body and all that hard work off, as well as providing great aero properties. The fabrics and panelling are designed to maximise performance, with a light mesh used on the side, aiding airflow. To the front and rear are a tighter weave, yet still light technical fabric, complete with the extremely colourful flower grid design.

The full-length concealed zipper is a quality one and strong, and the lighter stretch fabric used on the sleeves keeps things tight, with a clean cut look all the way to the edging. Rosti have used flat-felled seams with anti-chafing topstitching throughout, and when you look inside the jersey, the finishing is excellent, meaning that this is a high end jersey, well made and will last you a long time. At the waist, things are kept in place both through the quality of the multi-stretch fabric and the elasticated waist that is finished off with silicone gripper. It fits well, looks great and performs super

The 3 rear pockets are blended in the design with the flowers, spacious fitting everything you need from phone, keys, banana, bar, spare inner tube, rain jacket etc.

The fit is great, slim on the waist area and the length of the jersey is just enough not too long and neither too short. The bottom hem has a silicone band which keeps the jersey stay in place. The collar at the neck is made from soft fabric to be comfortable and protecting from sun. The sleeves are very elastic and light and at the ends they are nonwoven.

All in all, this Alpina Jersey looks and feels amazing, like a fresh summer breeze!

Pro1 Woman shorts – without braces

Like the Rosti SUMMER Bib Knickers, these ladies PRO1 shorts come without braces. It needs to be said again that this can be a good thing, as us ladies often find badly placed straps across our chest, very uncomfortable – think about it. Anyway, let’s take a look.

Rosti Pro1 are the classic cycling shorts. All Black with a small white Rosti logo on the back .

Rosti have used the same excellent Bormio® pad with recycled yarns, that I tested in the SUMMER Knickers. It’s a high quality and extremely comfortable pad, ideally suitable for long distances and with a quick-drying 3D structure, dealing with any moisture from sweating. Best of all, it’s reasonably slim and doesn’t look or feel awkward. Due to its sufficient compression material the pad stays in place during movement while cycling. It also helps that the waist is thight to stay put.

Comfort & Performance

If something isn’t broken, then don’t fix it. Rosti know this, and have again used their technical multi-directional Thunderbike fabric 80% Polyammide and 20% Elastane. Thunderbike is a rubber polymer; more precisely, a fabric with high density bonds that reinforce its structure, adding strength and flexibility of movement. Ideal then for hard cycling and it fits where it touches too, meaning that it shapes to me and I look great. The quality finish is made with strong, complex bonds that reinforce structures and fabrics, improving a garment’s mechanical performance. These shorts are definitely a high-performance item of cycle clothing. Best of all, the fabric is also reasonably breathable too. Clean cut with internal silicone gripper around the thigh. The waist band is thick and tight, you feel safe that they will not slip. It is also super comfortable due to the high quality pad.

For PRO1, the Rosti Racing department has once again chosen the Bormio® women’s bib short pad, designed for comfort and long distances, and having a quick-drying 3D structure, designed to ride for more than 6 hours. The PRO1 bibs are essential for people looking to improve their sports performance and stay stylish too. Their superior quality materials, breathability and unparalleled comfort make them the perfect bib shorts for female riders.

To summarize, these Rosti PRO1 Shorts, are the classic black shorts which you can match with any kind of colours and design, because everyone knows that black goes very well with everything. Super style and high performance are the two keywords to describe these shorts.

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Rosti Superblack Woman summer knickers

Pedalnorth Website — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:07:37 +0000

Rosti Superblack Woman summer knickers

by Larisa Chinces, Executive Editor

Larisa Chinces

Superblack Woman summer knickers – without braces

Mid-season means trying to find kit that’s not too warm and definitely not too cold. Thankfully, Rosti are based in the north of Itay, where spring isn’t always filled with sunshine.

These summer style knickers come without braces, and come down to the area of the mid-calf on the lower leg, keeping you warm… but not too warm. Braces on shorts can often be uncomfortable for women, and as long as the waist elasticity and waistband are good, then you’ll be fine without straps.

These knickers are high-waisted and the band is tight enough for me to keep the knickers up in place. It is woman specific form and I like this feature because I have a smaller waist and I don’t always find the right size to fit. The length of the inseam is perfect to my height ratio (180 cm tall). Actually this is my first ever pair of three quarter length cycling knickers and I really like them; they are perfect for spring and autumn and colder days in summer.

Style & Comfort

Let’s start with important things first then – the pad. Rosti have used a specifically designed for Bermuda Woman called BORMIO®. And, as we all know that the town of Bormio is in the mountains, it’s a pad made for comfort on long and hard rides – and it is. It’s a pad made completely of recycled yarns, which we like very much. The special combination of high impact foam and gel is perfect for vibration absorption. These Bermuda Woman shorts are indispensable for relaxing excursions on the bike.

The fabric used by Rosti is THIUNDERBIKE® fabric, chosen for these Band cut tights for its strength and quality, it has outstanding qualities: softness, utmost comfort, multi-directional stretch and durability. They’re made in 93% PES and 7% Elastane, which is really comfortable and allows easy movement.

High Quality Fabrics

They feel comfortable while riding due to high quality fabrics and pad. The classic black colour matches with any color and pattern you want too!

The compression is medium and it helps to keep the pants stay put, together with the excellent waist band. I really do recommend these pair of classic black three quarter length knickers; it’s a must have type of cycling gear that you should definitely have for spring and autumn and of course for any weather transition period.

Stylish, performance and really comfortable to ride in – I like them, and so will you

Visit the Rosti website

Click Here

Larisa Chinces – pedalnorth

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