SaddleSoreWomen.com
Round Two... Go!
I'm always amazed at how fast cyclocross season flies by. Is it really almost Halloween? It seems like nonstop travel since the last time I sent one of these out, and it's only been a few weeks!
I wanted to start this newsletter to keep people in the loop with what's going on with both the Saddle, Sore book(s!) and website and with the Bike Life Clinics and Conversations that Peter Glassford and I are doing that are largely based on the book (as well as basic skills coaching—important for every level of athlete!). This past month has had us doing talks and clinics in Toronto, Ontario; Boston, Massachusetts; Rochester, New York; Dundas, Ontario; and Winnipeg, Manitoba. And that's on top of racing! So as you can probably imagine, I've needed my copy of "Saddle, Sore" just to remind myself how to deal with tough days on the bike (and the *ahem* unpleasant aftermath).
Anyway, it's hard to believe that it's almost the holiday season, but with a couple of big trips coming up, I find myself wanting to get ahead of the curve on Christmas shopping, so I was inspired to write up a gift guide for this newsletter... Of course, I'd also recommend everything on here as 'treat yo' self' gifts as well, so if you're not ready to start Christmas shopping, maybe indulge a bit yourself!
We're heading to Roanoke, Virginia and Washington, DC in mid-November for a few clinics and conversations, so if you're in the area, please come out!
Stay rad,
Molly
Gift Guide for the New (or Veteran) Cyclist in Your Life
(Or Yourself. You Deserve It.)
I know it's a little early for Christmas lists, but then again, it's never too early to start prepping. So here are a few of my favorite things that you could get for the new rider (or riding buddy) in your life.
A copy of Saddle, Sore! You already have one, but make sure your friend is riding happy. Use our FRIEND code to get 10% off!
WD40 Bike Products: their chain lube is the best I’ve ever used, but what I really love is the Frame Protecant that they have. My bikes are so shiny, they always look new!
Her’ Chamois Butt’r: Chamois cream specifically designed for women that actually lasts! I survived a four hour ride on a saddle that I (to be totally honest) hate. And the next day? Things are still feeling great! (It contains aloe vera, green tea leaf extract, tea tree oil, shea butter & lavender oil for their “naturally occurring beneficial properties”)
Pedro’s Tire Levers: Totally minor thing, and at $5, not much of an investment, but bear with me. These are the first levers I’ve found that I don’t have trouble with and will never, ever break on you when you’re dealing with a really tight tire. Plus since they’re a bit bigger and brightly colored, they’re harder to lose and harder to have someone “accidentally” walk away with them! (Don’t know how to change a flat? Watch my video here)
Cat’s Tongue Towels (individually wrapped): These always go in my saddlebag and my race bag before rides and trips. They’re designed to get grease off, whether it’s off of your hands when you have to stop to change a flat (anyone else end up with grease smeared on their face after a ride?) or off your bike where the chain left a mark, the towels work really well.
Baby Wipes: perfect for keeping on hand for quick post-ride changes
Question Hunt!
I'm working on a few projects and need some reader input. If you have any questions about the following topics, let me know by emailing me!
Men's 'issues' on the bike
Questions about menopause and the bike
Questions about pregnancy and riding
Questions about post-pregnancy riding
Our awesome columnist Alexis David recently held a screening of Kathryn Bertine's Half the Road documentary, and reviews the film here.
First of all, I hope you've had a chance to check out my latest project, The Bike Life: Clinics and Conversations. Cycling skills coach Peter Glassford and I have teamed up to produce a series of skills clinics and womens-only (and unisex) conversations across the country (lots on the East Coast and Ontario). You can check out our calendar for the full schedule, or let us know where you'd like to see our clinic!
If you don't already have a copy of Saddle, Sore, you can buy one here.
The Bike Life:
November Calendar
Dates in Roanoke, VA and Washington DC
Know a junior woman? Make sure she downloads her FREE Mini-Saddle, Sore copy here.
A few of my favorite pieces I've written lately...
Thinking about hosting a Ladies' Night near you? They're a blast! Check out our most recent events here.