tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22058059467222908532012-02-05T19:02:33.104ZCyclocross & Cobbled Classics* presented by a rider whose current skill level resembles a monster suit wearing competitor on a 60's euro game show. Words/Illustration: Duncan Astle.Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.comBlogger1701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-58622996734213350382012-01-29T19:14:00.013Z2012-01-29T19:58:26.416Z

As you've probably noticed there's been little posting action over the last month or so, and as I alluded to a while ago, I've been thinking about the future of the blog and the direction it should take.Well with great pleasure I can announce the end of Here Come the Belgians and a refocussing of my output over at my new label superouleur (www.superouleur.com) So what happened? what changed?

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-4909059367433176982011-12-17T19:27:00.002Z2011-12-17T19:44:07.446Z

Racing Bolton II tomorrow although trying to get rid of a bit of a cough.Fitting then that Berden II arrives as the previous edit fueled me through a decent ride at Bolton I.Stomp on.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-68769066876682596592011-11-28T21:25:00.004Z2011-11-28T21:52:01.203Z

Pretty much a month's passed without a post.I've had a birthday, been on holiday to the sun for a couple of weeks then returned to sit back, relax and reflect on the whole blog thing. It's been nice giving myself some space to understand what I'm producing, what I'm not and what I could and perhaps should produce. Sorry if it all seems a little abstract, it's just that I feel that it's time for

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-78479290687064627462011-10-30T22:00:00.001Z2011-10-30T22:03:23.434Z

Zonhoven cyclocross reminded reminded me of the other cross. Seen here originally.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-42178654140494469262011-10-30T21:29:00.002Z2011-10-30T21:57:44.708Z

I haven't seen today's race from Zonhoven but the sand and gradient looks seriously harsh. Some of the crashes looked hardcore too especially Bart Aernout's, hope he didn't knack himself too badly.It's been a relatively mild season so far and it'll get warmer for me as I'm off on holiday shortly, and no, there isn't a Majorcan winter training camp in sight. This seasons been a strange one for

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-26282887482943819712011-10-26T21:34:00.002+01:002011-10-26T21:55:41.626+01:00

I posted this race last year. Racing at night, combined with a party atmosphere. Yes please, I'd love some of that.Seems like we're rushing toward the time of year when we spend most of our lives in darkness. It's made me think about the possibility of getting some lights to go out training on a cross loop after work.Just think about it that is. I'll probably be on the turbo when the mercury

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-43628962538929949982011-10-26T20:53:00.002+01:002011-10-26T20:56:41.269+01:00

...and here's the footage.Ladies and Gentlemen. Roll up! roll up! Come see the amazing flying man.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-84742370485393149262011-10-26T20:10:00.006+01:002011-10-26T20:47:20.992+01:00

Found this on tumblr, don't know who took it or if it's a still from the tv footage.Stybar is rad (haven't said that for a good few years, but dayglo's back in so it's open season on the 80's), he nailed the table on pretty much every lap.This is cross.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-45118985415435675182011-10-07T10:38:00.002+01:002011-10-07T10:42:45.040+01:00

Just had to repost this before it's all over like a rash. Spotted on Paper Thin Ben's blog.Friday stoke for a muddy Sunday. Tat's, Metal, Cross and Godzilla a match made in heaven.I'm so inspired I'll have to dig out my Yuppicide Vinyl.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-73476344359504092672011-10-05T20:42:00.006+01:002011-10-05T21:16:44.777+01:00

So Saturday was my first cross race of the season (Clayton Vale, Manchester) and provided a shock to the system from a physical intensity viewpoint and also a temperature perspective, it was stinking hot! My race began with the regular first corner bunfight as 100 or something riders aim for a gap made for 4. It just doesn't go. As we compress, someone gets into my left lever and the next second

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-11550271991529438382011-09-30T22:24:00.002+01:002011-09-30T22:30:09.476+01:00

...and while were on it. We're gonna race through the trees like this tomorrow......just a bit slower.edit by Rob Mitchell and previously posted by Paper Thin Ben

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-16202670281702856312011-09-30T21:53:00.004+01:002011-09-30T22:14:24.501+01:00

Sven hands it to the early season young uns although I reckon Tom Meussen will be in the mix more often this year. We're scheduled to race tomorrow. Wth the temperature predicted to reach 27°C (depending who you believe) looks like the long sleeve skinsuit will stay at home and the bottle cage will go back on.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-24678476283011552642011-09-27T12:17:00.005+01:002011-09-28T11:20:31.648+01:00

... will be resumed after this brief intermission.Just got sent this from a friend in Sweden (cheers Ulf I owe you a beer), liked it so much I needed to repost it.Reckon you'll like this one too Jim...

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-53353292734032406942011-09-26T13:47:00.000+01:002011-09-26T13:49:08.759+01:00

The 3 sticker sets are all now sold...You snooze, you lose.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-62597353697064351222011-09-24T20:02:00.005+01:002011-09-25T21:55:19.704+01:00

New clothes for the race bike in the trad Belgian flag colours (had to be done at some stage). Just a new chain to prep the bike with and then racing next Saturday at Clayton Vale.I have 3 spare sets of stickers, printed vinyl with a gloss laminate. Red, Yellow and a really dark grey rather than black (with lighter grey highlights). They're cut large, so to trim to suit. No cutouts for bottle

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-67531272902974604882011-09-24T19:02:00.004+01:002011-09-24T19:24:38.600+01:00

CrossClub, a new team coming to the North East. Kit design finished in the last couple of weeks and off to be made next week (I think). Can't wait to see it in the flesh as I've lived with the design for a while and just want get a jersey on.Caps should look super sweet.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-49122345964128053932011-09-24T18:56:00.002+01:002011-09-24T19:00:20.811+01:00

Lack of blog posts pretty much mean I've been up to stuff, so here's the first thing, a quick poster for Cycle Sport Pendle's cross race in October.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-61356214328144506732011-09-02T12:27:00.000+01:002011-09-02T12:28:17.617+01:00

So I'm having a conversation about music and bands and how NYHC is currently stacking my playlist at the moment (especially Crown of Thornz) rather than the regular jazz mixes I listen to. So here's one to fire up Friday. Maximum Penalty. Old School Baby.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-80368867264594544662011-09-01T20:33:00.004+01:002011-09-01T21:00:37.957+01:00

Mid summer I had all the intention to get myself on the cross tubular tyre merry go round. Well, being short of funds it was going to take an ebay trawl to find some donor parts, have them put together then find some cheap tyres to put on. My enthusiasm pretty much diminished in the process. The donor parts vanished from the bay, cheap tubs don't exist...and if they do they're no better than

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-947789076349208132011-08-30T21:14:00.002+01:002011-08-30T21:19:33.327+01:00

If you can race cyclocross and feel the body english, bike movement and vibe encapsulated in this edit, then you must be doing something right. Love some of the shots in this piece.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-41030406448440925492011-08-30T21:04:00.002+01:002011-08-30T21:08:00.472+01:00

Thought you might recognise some of the faces on this trailer. Looks pretty interesting.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-73195361184722729522011-08-26T12:28:00.001+01:002011-08-26T12:29:44.253+01:00

Boom... BMX on a Friday. Music sucks but the riding is quality produce.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-39203980717373719962011-08-23T21:29:00.004+01:002011-08-23T21:46:30.260+01:00

Could this be the next thing... the contender for the Belgian throne... my new project... The answers are maybe, maybe and no... not yet* Find out more here, with kit hints here *although I suppose you could call me graphic scientist/brand guardian.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-70699642766825592032011-08-16T20:27:00.004+01:002011-08-16T20:58:09.664+01:00

I've been going to the woods now for some time, it's a dirty secret... and I like it. It's a definite and really enjoyable transition from road mileage to carving through the trees. If you see a flash of red and black in the undergrowth, don't be scared, it's just a cyclocross wierdo. Bikewise I need to make some changes to my drive chain as it's a little talkative. I've worn sprockets which will

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-24019357196210000252011-08-16T20:15:00.002+01:002011-08-16T20:22:16.855+01:00

Not some skinny bouncing up and down guy trying to drop everyone, Alpe d'Huez from a different angle... Best thing is, English Whippet Matt Winstanley won the meeting. Go on boy!

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-82829314419008210742011-08-05T22:37:00.002+01:002011-08-05T22:41:37.003+01:00

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-69512706503765756502011-08-01T20:48:00.003+01:002011-08-01T21:23:11.246+01:00

Great footage of the MX2 Lommel Belgium from this weekend just gone. Bike wanting to do one thing whilst the body tells it to do something else on a very unforgiving surface.Pure groove.- yeah, how good would it be to have this as your back garden -

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-51460706338986234582011-08-01T20:28:00.003+01:002011-08-01T20:46:13.975+01:00

I'm unapologetic if it seems like the blog takes a turn toward moto's during the summer months. I think it boils down to anything with a 'cross' in the title gets me stoked and riding the supermoto is a perfect mixture of tarmac and dirt capability - and noise and irritation to girlfriend Jo :)So here's the clip that justifies it all. Belgium, Everts, motocrosser's cyclocrossing, cyclocrossers

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-61682577154242933842011-07-26T22:12:00.002+01:002011-07-26T22:18:29.974+01:00

Like it lots. Here's the story.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-41400759600182220772011-07-26T21:53:00.003+01:002011-07-26T22:11:58.953+01:00

Holidays are great. Switch off, throw the ball on a beach for the dog, walk, breathe fresh air, forget about bicycles and riding. Do other stuff, live some life.Forget about racing, about races, about blogs, about blogging.Holidays make you focus, look at what you're doing and what you're gonna do next.So what's next?A new HCtB kit order in August.Next spring a new HCtB summer jersey in the style

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-34819778699491795482011-06-17T09:36:00.001+01:002011-06-17T09:39:20.957+01:00

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-19042003152586691292011-06-16T20:47:00.004+01:002011-06-16T21:27:06.317+01:00

I rode the moto over the Snake last weekend and it made me realise how much I really enjoy riding it and want more saddle time, whilst I need to revisit that part of the Peak as I haven't ridden that spot on the bicycle for a while.In the meantime brand new edit from Thibaud Poulain, class.Other stuff I'm glued to is Roland's photos (something new every couple of days, the man's an an animal) and

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-11332696375939406172011-06-15T21:27:00.002+01:002011-06-15T21:46:22.782+01:00

A consistency of my interests is the cyclical nature of my focus. For 6 months I might be really hype towards something... say supercross for example. Over time my focus shifts slightly, I never drop my passions but I've a broad spectrum to choose from.DJ Greyboy is one passion. He's consistently made some great tunes, been part of the soundtrack to my Skate/Sno/BMX life and my focus has just

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-69119840656411619262011-06-15T20:50:00.003+01:002011-06-15T21:26:02.538+01:00

Two weeks ago was the first race in the Manchester Midweek MTB Madness series. A 6 race series which I thought would be ideal summer racing as they use relative similar courses to the ones we use for cross. I was taking a punt using the cross bike as they're billed as MTB races, get too tech on rocky descents and it could be a case of breaking me and the bike in half.So, on a beautiful evening I

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-82257112497582108392011-05-30T21:53:00.004+01:002011-05-30T22:02:45.670+01:00

It's a tiny bit old but Cervélo's Roubaix edit came out and I couldn't really be bother to repost it, there didn't seem to be much race footage (I could be wrong - scanning through it with the dog on the sofa whilst watching TV doesn't help).Netapp's version seemed pretty enjoyable, especially the race detail.Enjoy.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-84919528309175474432011-05-30T17:00:00.004+01:002011-05-30T17:40:59.828+01:00

There's just something about supermoto (or supermotard if you're French) that really works for me. The mixture of big capacity offroad machine with semi slick road tyres, giving it berries on both surfaces, magic. Thibaud Poulain's edit's are perfect examples of this an make me pretty envious of the kit and skill on show. Mix of offroad/road machinery on a bit of both surfaces... sounds a bit

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-5040299140535504892011-05-24T21:57:00.004+01:002011-05-24T22:10:16.242+01:00

So while the world is sidetracked by skinny bloke in pink going up hills fast and another skinny bloke who used to go up hills fast and their common thread of stuff they've never taken maybe take a minute and have a look Roland Desmet's blog and photos.Be it comedy podium gurning, flying bikes or Stybar sprinting for the win it's all there in a very unassuming but expansive volume of Belgian pro

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-3973539080894775922011-05-24T21:21:00.002+01:002011-05-24T21:27:01.664+01:00

Cool edit. BMX simplicity has never really left my system and it might be time to consider a 24" purchase in the future (probably distant future that is).

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-1203965170534385342011-05-23T21:19:00.005+01:002011-05-24T20:30:58.148+01:00

Spotted this which may be of interest to North Westerners as it frequents a couple of spots used for cross through the winter. Finish work, sling a bike in the car, race for an hour (40 mins + 1 ish), smile, go home.Might be a chance to spin the legs on familiar territory or get familiar with the territory you won't be spinning your legs on in Winter.Click the image to view the detail.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-38183589373138324772011-05-16T21:38:00.000+01:002011-05-16T21:39:10.145+01:00

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-16181644722266608732011-05-16T21:10:00.006+01:002011-05-16T21:35:30.346+01:00

A few final images of Flanders (a couple of posts worth).Just a little way to pay respect to the guys that ride their arses off for no glory other than a job well done.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-75813250438521296462011-04-28T14:26:00.002+01:002011-04-28T14:34:06.359+01:00

How do you follow a motocross edit with a bicycle one? Easy.Sweet video, makes you want to go and ride... or build a track in your garden.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-57615267510397140792011-04-28T14:13:00.003+01:002011-04-28T14:25:07.885+01:00

Wunderkids Herlings and Roczen with words by living legend Everts.Mikey Neale has to be one of my fave video guys of all time.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-12924588779119634442011-04-27T21:16:00.000+01:002011-04-27T21:18:00.135+01:00

Johnny Aubert. Inspiration from here.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-69197416751552790552011-04-20T21:10:00.007+01:002011-04-20T21:24:48.947+01:00

[photo: Rob Walker]RvV 2011.Great photo of Geraint Thomas pinning it up the Muur. His showing in the Ronde and a week later in Roubaix makes you wonder if he could topple Flecha as the Sky cobble specialist. Here's hoping.Great photo by Rob, apparently a lucky snapshot taken over his shoulder. Lucky for me he sent it through to post.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-81137427118485535032011-04-18T22:22:00.003+01:002011-04-18T22:29:23.297+01:00

RvV 2011. Ian Stannard followed by Leif Hoste and Devolder.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-26217548746976668812011-04-18T22:18:00.002+01:002011-04-18T22:22:28.386+01:00

RvV 2011. Devolder. Belgium Champion.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-33924581432227940362011-04-18T22:15:00.002+01:002011-04-18T22:17:16.456+01:00

Pozzato. RvV 2011.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-39273706662452917112011-04-18T21:54:00.003+01:002011-04-18T22:10:22.045+01:00

RvV 2011. The breakaway brought back. Cancellara and Chavanel come into view and are immediately joined by the pack of chasers.Phil Gilbert in the background, readying himself for his Bosberg explosion.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-79093679285086246962011-04-18T21:50:00.002+01:002011-04-18T21:53:53.244+01:00

RvV 2011. Muur, Geraardsbergen. We can see the helicopters.The tension is palpable.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-65254065364867359992011-04-15T12:29:00.002+01:002011-04-15T12:39:49.225+01:00

[Me | Paul | Flags - photo: Rob Walker]...Getting a Vlaamse Leeuw flag from the lucky lucky flag man.Geraardsbergen, Sunday morning. Can't believe how pissed off we look, it's so funny it hurts. We were enjoying ourselves, honest (you ought to see us when we're not).

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-4032047834724188932011-04-14T22:41:00.002+01:002011-04-14T22:44:45.407+01:00

We rode yesterday, they're racing today, we're waiting now.Sunday Morning, Geraardsbergen RvV 2011.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-16811331199586470962011-04-14T21:25:00.002+01:002011-04-14T21:54:03.307+01:00

[Rob|Me|Rich|Me|Rob]Scribble the bergs down on a piece of surgical tape? Sorry, I just couldn't do it.We were all equipped with top tube route stickers both 150 & 260 km's. They worked remarkably well, to within half a kilometre of accuracy and were invaluable in figuring out what was coming up.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-39916693010421637512011-04-13T21:44:00.003+01:002011-04-13T22:04:03.065+01:00

Cool snippet of Musseuw up the Muur. Riding the tourist RvV is a living, breathing museum of kits gone by. The Mapei one being a firm favourite. I even saw one old timer whose shorts had been worn and washed so many times the lycra's elasticity had completely failed. He was still wearing them with pride.And will probably go on until they crumble to dust.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-19119308247005963822011-04-12T22:11:00.001+01:002011-04-12T22:15:44.306+01:00

Bridging across.From the 10,000 strong chase group to the 10,000 strong breakaway.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-16810300666768178392011-04-12T21:48:00.003+01:002011-04-13T08:50:13.031+01:00

Obligatory walking up the Koppenberg photo. Note to self, stop smiling and taking the piss......this is supposed to be serious!Whatever. It isn't a race... although no one told the Italians that.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-33259370669254491402011-04-12T20:06:00.004+01:002011-04-12T21:03:24.616+01:00

The best week in the cycling calendar. Flanders and Roubaix, there aren't two better races in the world, sorry if it upsets you, it's just the way it is around here.Riding my first Tourist RVV was an amazing experience. The number of riders, the organisation, road closures, police care, motorbike outriders and feed stop provision is phenomenal. All this to allow us to experience a small part of

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-77156385441309051002011-04-05T20:56:00.003+01:002011-04-05T21:16:39.622+01:00

The title pretty much sums it up, the Ronde van Vlaanderen 2011 has been an amazing adventure. I've got some words, some semi decent photos (we were on the way to epic fail on the photo front at one point) and a bag of dirty cycling kit to sort out.I'll post some stuff throughout the week as I get chance to get my head around what we've just experienced... it's bloody amazing.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-84051043431002888382011-04-01T12:19:00.002+01:002011-04-01T12:25:07.880+01:00

They've just trained on cobble, I've just cobbled some designs together at work before I leave.Flight time is only hours away and I'm ready to rock 'n' roll. Apparently the weather tomorrow is gonna be 22˚C and sunny, pretty wrong for Belgium but I'll take what I'm given.Good luck to everyone riding both the RVV and RVOL tomorrow.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-89243586148832928662011-03-31T20:42:00.002+01:002011-03-31T21:36:32.593+01:00

Blimey T minus 2.. or it might be 1 depending how you look at it. I fly out to Brussels tomorrow evening as my bike is already over there courtesy of Paul Errington of Shoestring Racing fame (if I have a bad patch on Saturday I'll blame him - it's been his crazy yet brilliant idea). I'm expecting an April fool tomorrow with an email saying the bike's still in England. I won't believe it even if

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-92181756133676193012011-03-08T12:27:00.000Z2011-03-08T12:29:56.101Z

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-83914116092747635052011-03-03T20:29:00.003Z2011-03-03T21:54:11.811Z

After committing myself to the prospect of riding Flanders, both in promises made and credit card unsheathed, I've had to reconcile myself to actually doing a little riding in preparation. I've managed a few Saturday rides in typical Manchester weather (rain, wind, wind & rain) with a bit of distance (around 120km) to give me the peace of mind that my chosen distance (the 150km) is going to be a

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-1818847553084595702011-03-01T21:45:00.003Z2011-03-01T22:09:07.700Z

Roughly a week ago I had the opportunity for free tickets to the Track World Cup at the Manchester Velodrome. Now being a track virgin I was pretty much open to any new experience I could have and it pretty much blew me away.The atmosphere was electric, a good natured yet partisan crowd, gladiator hype music and monsterous performances by all (bar an ill mannered Ukrainian rider). I really,

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-64530772626306523832011-02-21T22:01:00.003Z2011-02-21T22:13:29.303Z

GAME ON...The detail's being worked on and will be sketched out over the next couple of weeks but the deeds been done.I have my travel booked and paid for and I'm registered for the 150km.I'm riding the Ronde Van Vlaanderen.April 2nd.Belgium.COME ON!!

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-10781787288403166642011-02-21T21:31:00.004Z2011-02-21T21:55:37.857Z

Route by Crossjunkie.Artwork by me.Cobble and climb crushing by you (or maybe the cobble wins).Further details here.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-83207395588068812632011-02-10T19:56:00.003Z2011-02-10T20:02:13.431Z

The Jazz heads will have already seen this a while ago, nonetheless it's a cool type in motion tribute to Reid Miles that needs a little more air time.Cool.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-87004267995223917812011-02-05T15:35:00.002Z2011-02-05T15:52:42.708Z

The antidote to a day of wall to wall rain, grey sky, low visibility.Golden.... It's all there.Motorbikes, men opening car doors while they're moving, enough vittoria pavés to make you poo your keks, Cancellara crushing cobble (and the opposition) and a fleeting glimpse of our man Hoste.I've needed this all week, something to perk up the post cross pre classic doldrums. Thanks to paperthin for

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-51477351988340967702011-02-01T20:34:00.002Z2011-02-01T20:52:11.184Z

Beautifully filmed. Two wheels and the open road.Motorbike or bicycle.It's very much the same vibe.See more at Riding September.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-34473131090979729422011-01-20T12:21:00.001Z2011-01-20T12:23:01.257Z

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-45389042393704810732011-01-17T19:11:00.003Z2011-01-17T19:23:14.000Z

... and though of those looking forward to hot tarmac. Just a small matter of the cross WK then the classics before summer heat.Oh yes, cross then cobble. Music to our ears.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-66121781056544101272011-01-13T19:32:00.002Z2011-01-13T19:37:04.315Z

So good to see your team mates rocking your kit design. Geeeon! Hup The Belgians!

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-76753670231401074002010-12-23T14:33:00.004Z2010-12-23T15:27:01.025Z

Past: My last race (Bolton) came and went without much fanfare and the asthma seemed far better controlled than previously Partly due to my medication routine and warmup and partly due to taking my foot off the gas in the race - conditions under wheel were sketchy throughout the course and an easier ride was preferred over a broken collar bone. It's a shame really but you have to put real life

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-885615594863918722010-12-08T21:13:00.001Z2010-12-08T21:26:17.473Z

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-52354640388539564902010-12-07T20:36:00.002Z2010-12-07T20:37:56.092Z

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-11777372649092693412010-11-24T21:16:00.003Z2010-11-24T21:40:04.759Z

Yeah, yeah I've had a brief hiatus on the writing front but not for want of trying. The blog's had another subtle makeover and I've got a t-shirt in the pipeline (with the lion suit wearing man front and centre). A set of posters are currently in artworking for the cross race on Todmorden and the team cap and winter hat have had a subtle makeover and should be landing around Christmas.On the

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-65654427119006699192010-10-28T13:14:00.002+01:002010-10-28T13:28:12.317+01:00

Just imagine.Racing at night, under floodlights. A spectacle supported by the local community and businesses. Impartial trackside spectators interested in the happening rather than your hard suffering friends and family.Oh if it could only happen in the uk......and if it did I wouldn't get a start, not being quick enough.Time to start looking for a supermarket with a bit of landscaping. I'm

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-59375969775566217872010-10-22T16:36:00.002+01:002010-10-22T16:42:37.775+01:00

Roubaix without the Arenburg is like...Morecambe without Wise.Starsky without Hutch.Run without DMC.Bell without Ross.Protest People. Just Say No.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-40330985923993531192010-10-22T12:21:00.003+01:002010-10-22T12:29:51.814+01:00

Seriously digging the photos by Cheryl King at the moment. See more of her stuff here or over at flickrGo and buy some of her stuff, tell her The Belgians sent you.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-89938984294597010542010-10-22T12:11:00.002+01:002010-10-22T12:15:36.322+01:00

I'm a designer, I use placeholder text nearly every day.Uncanny then the translation of Lorem Ipsum and it's relevance to our cyclocross alter egos."No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful.Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-19053457234141921432010-10-14T12:20:00.003+01:002010-10-14T12:33:12.345+01:00

Two weekends two races. Better feelings and more enjoyment (racing rather than surviving) although these things don't necessarily correlate with better results.Moving forward, learning and enjoying your racing irrespective of result.Process over product.Progression.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-62580319391251304662010-10-07T12:56:00.002+01:002010-10-07T13:11:14.284+01:00

Leverhulme Park, Bolton.First cross race of the season after a few weeks lost on a trip to Canada.First lap and a serious case of ham fisted overshifting sees the left shift lever snap cleanly in half and fly over my right shoulder. I let out a wail.Not for any injury caused but the thought of money hemorrhaging from my wallet.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-87263997683724751652010-10-07T12:43:00.004+01:002010-10-07T12:49:02.205+01:00

Idle hands make quick work of screening your logo on the ubiquitous neoprene chainstay protector.Sweet.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-32957203799594497372010-10-05T14:09:00.004+01:002010-10-05T16:09:55.981+01:00

I'm back. Been away. Panic over. More soon.Photos courtesy: crossjunkie

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-34741344713313318152010-05-13T13:42:00.003+01:002010-05-13T14:09:56.740+01:00

Simply put, we're* going for a loop around some of Cheshire's finest secret spots, unpaved, gravel, broken and a healthy dose of cobble (at least 10 sectors of cobble squire!). A leisurely pace for a few hours soul riding. Catchups and laughter mandatory. Join us if you fancy it, 30 - 40 miles, a couple of hours or more. Social.Were riding through Romiley (here) at around 10.30 a.m. Two cafés

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-60762385878359226032010-05-10T20:25:00.004+01:002010-05-11T13:20:16.050+01:00

So the dust has finally settled on the 2010 Classics and I'll admit I'm focussing on the cross season, as, call me shallow there's only two real seasons to me, cross & classics. Sure we're into the grand tours but my attention span for cycling chess is short.So it seemed with resounding, crushing victories in a handful of the monuments, Cancellara had both flattened his opponents and our

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-49052554696288616872010-04-20T16:12:00.001+01:002010-04-20T16:19:17.559+01:00

If you were thinking of joining the team now's your chance. We're putting an order together for Summer Kit and were going RED.Items available (supplied by Champion System) are:Short sleeve jerseys: £38.50 + postageLong sleeve jerseys: £45.00 + postageGilets: £37.00 + postageSummer Caps: £8.00 + postageShort and warmers are your own choice as long as they're black.Remember once you buy a jersey,

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-30946873590606686452010-04-09T15:09:00.003+01:002010-04-09T15:16:25.459+01:00

More of the same, apologies if you're scouring the net for Roubaix content and you've seen it already. Absolutely loving the opening shot from this footage, Hoste's bike bucking yet flowing at the same time. A glorious surface to race on.More good stuff here and here.I've no intention to for this blog to become Lotto centric, come on Quickstep, show your guns!

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-51975258595805651582010-04-09T14:07:00.004+01:002010-04-09T14:16:26.368+01:00

This is what I'm talking about. Pre Roubaix sabre rattling courtesy of Tim De Waele who has some of the best photos around. Check out the photos here and consider:A. How unified and strong Team Saxo lookB. How disorganised some of the other teams look.C. The Saxo rider's crash. WTF! How did it happen? Sunday can't come soon enough.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-62406803570813074142010-03-31T10:48:00.003+01:002010-03-31T11:09:09.785+01:00

Well looks like they've done it. Canyon gives Gilbert's bike the Kasseiklassieker makeover.So that's it then, Gilbert's hopes of a win scuppered by a bike that looks as heavy as the stones it's being ridden over and as welcoming as the chipped, stained, earthenware mug that you invariably find in the barren cupboards of holiday accommodation the world over (and have no choice but to drink from as

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-89038187305298545382010-03-29T12:20:00.005+01:002010-03-30T09:28:06.487+01:00

Now this is what I'm talking about, although it's an old clip.It looks like Hoste and Lotto's opening salvo's are damp squibs, so COME ON THE REDS (even though you're in a god-awful green and white kit).Wonder if Canyon will do anything special for this years Roubaix? If so can you please produce a spare one and send it to be tested in the Hell of North Cheshire...Please?Pretty Please?

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-75778121398321341452010-03-29T12:02:00.005+01:002010-03-30T09:29:39.630+01:00

Fyxo consolidates itself as a place of continual inspiration.Words don't do this man justice.Sean Yates giving the pavé payback. If you ever had the opportunity for this man to barrel past you you'll understand. The paintings of both Turner and Martin where probably based on the aftermath on the road after Sean having Rouleur'd through.Prolly has Merckx Mondays, we should have Yates years. Now

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-38881793733802115182010-03-26T15:51:00.002Z2010-03-26T15:56:03.153Z

You can do it we know you can. Could this rendition of the cobble classics be a triumphant parade for Mr. Hoste, another bridesmaid affair or a gentle wimpering into obscurity? Unfortunately I'm inclined to think it may be the two later choices. Whatever happens you can't beat the fly eyed, pointy elbowed riders pre-ride style (although some beg to differ). As mentioned before I'm a sucker for

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-77451721461314045172010-03-25T15:06:00.002Z2010-03-25T15:15:05.220Z

Maybe you're buying team kit, maybe you're not. Maybe you're just interested anyway. New post here about our team kit buying habits...keep an eye out, there's new stuff on the horizon.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-28260507221163512242010-03-23T12:19:00.006Z2010-03-26T09:05:29.137Z

...or half of the north. A quick Sunday tap around the lanes of north Cheshire.14 sections of cobble/Kassein/Pavé (28 in Roubaix - half [hell] of the north...get it?). Some brutal others relatively smooth. Some with one line (deviate at your peril), others with a multitude of characterful jolts and jiggles. All to be taken as quick as you can muster. My route actually bears more resemblance to a

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-31081781034069364682010-03-04T13:22:00.003Z2010-03-04T13:30:20.034Z

The Belgians Semi-classics have tantalised our tastebuds and we're getting pysched for the monuments.Prior to it all, we're going riding. Brainchild of Alan 'Crossjunkie' Dorrington a pre-RVV loop to get you in the mood. Here's Crossjunkie's take on it all;"...the feel and cobbles of a Spring Classic, with some beautiful North West countryside thrown in for good measure.Come and join us on April

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-73245409390895982072010-02-26T12:51:00.003Z2010-02-26T13:00:28.901Z

Last clearance announcement.2 Belgian (Euro) style winter hats supplied by Champion System. Techfleece material (double thickness over the ear) with windstopper fronts. Lined and finished pretty nicely.£15.00 plus postage to wherever you are.So that's all I have left (still 1 cap/2 T's left), any interest drop me an email. Keep an eye out in the future as we may be developing a different

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-25526277501863490112010-02-25T16:31:00.002Z2010-02-25T16:33:19.354Z

1 cap & 2 t-shirts left. I also have 2 winter hats (belgian style) available, pictures and price to follow.when they're gone they're gawn!!

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-77617510434329796232010-02-24T13:28:00.005Z2010-02-24T13:47:25.914Z

I'm doing some general housekeeping of the Team HCtB's service course and have some items to move out.First of all Team Caps. Italian made (same manu as the pro peleton's) black cotton caps. One size fits all. Screened in white on either side and top peak by my own fair hands (waterbased yet washfast ink to be good to the enviro and myself). I have 5 prototypes left (ink has slightly bled on some

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-81822739433453599872010-02-24T13:23:00.002Z2010-02-24T13:27:45.297Z

Can someone out there, maybe a construction mogul, an industry giant or just a good old generous benefactor please give us the opportunity to create this (and race in it) in the UK.Please...

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2205805946722290853.post-56428923077154406882010-02-24T13:13:00.003Z2010-02-24T13:22:11.058Z

I love this time of year.The full winter kit, the final sabre rattling rides, the anticipation for the fireworks on our behalf.Quickstep hit the cobbles first, while it seems Lotto have left Gilbert behind.

Duncan Ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06092397339637341994noreply@blogger.com0