Weekend Watch: ENVE

ENVE make some awesome wheels, they also seem to be making some of the best MTB videos at the moment. Great stuff.
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#5MaratonasChallenge Day 5 1998+ - A Final Climb

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"The final climb is either an elated zen-like sprint, or a long dark tunnel with a distant light at the end". I am pleased and thankful to say that today I finished the #5MaratonasChallenge, in a euphoric state.

Today's route was the current Maratona dles Dolomites course: 143 kilometres, with 4,300 metres of climbing. That is a big day out by any standards, but thankfully it is less excessive than some of the preceding days that I have ridden this week - my legs were thankful for that, at least.




The Finale RideThe sun rose on another beautiful day in the Dolomites, as I headed to the start in Varda.

From Corvara, the route heads on a lap of the Sellaronda: Campolongo, Pordio, Sella and Gardena.

Then, back in Corvara, you ascend Campolongo a second time; before descending, to the base of the Passo Giau.







Café refuel before GiauI have developed a love-hate relationship with the Passo Giau over the last five days, so in the hope of starting this final ascent on good terms, I …
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The #5MaratonasChallenge Sommario

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The idea of riding the five historic Maratona dles Dolomites routes, over five consecutive days, evolved from a desire to discover and celebrate what this unique mountain range has to offer.

Printed on a set of route cards, provided by cyclingdolomites.com, the five routes of this classic Grand Fondo would take me on new roads, and to new heights. It would also provide a challenge that would push bike, body and mind beyond previous limits.

This is my #5MaratonasChallenge Sommario - a résumé of the challenge. The greatest memories; the hardest moments; my favourite kit; and the lessons learned.


The Final Statistics#5MaratonasChallenge
5 rides42 hours riding time873 kilometres ridden28,300 metres elevation climbed
7 Days in the Dolomites (including the warm-up and #WildCardDolomitiRide)
7 rides55 hours riding time1,073 kilometres ridden36,500 metres elevation climbed


The Lasting Memory It is hard to think of one defining moment or memory, from the five long days in the saddle.

If I coul…
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#5MaratonasChallenge Day 3 - 1990-91 - A Beautiful Ride

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It always takes a few days for me to feel at home in the mountains. Yesterday, I saw the dark side; the unpredictable and untamed alter-ego. Today, thankfully, things were different.

After a few days, I begin to descend better; climb better; and even gain small learnings that make the ride that much easier: things like when to put on a rain cape, and even when to eat and drink on the climbs.

Day 3 of the #5MaratonasChallenge was clearly my day of coming to an understanding with the mountains.

With 175 kilometres to ride, and 5,800 metres of climbing to complete, the 1990-1991 Maratona course was going to be another long day in the saddle.



Valparola and new ground The day began with the same ascent of the Valparola pass as yesterday; before a long descent to Cortina, and a new loop up and over the Passo Tre Croci - an incredible little series of switchbacks.







Passo Giau From the top of the Passo Tre Croci, it was a long fast descent back to Cortina.

Then, starting the Passo Giau from i…
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#5MaratonasChallenge - The Warm-up Ride

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Before the true challenge commences, a teaser was required. Something to warm the legs, and remind my body and mind of what it is like to ride on Dolomite mountains roads. 
Time to take photos, and spin the legs; before the long and difficult days begin.

A misty mountain dawnI wake from a good night's sleep, and open the shutters to reveal a mist-shrouded mountain landscape.  "The mountains are calling, and I must go."
Breakfast at the Ustaria Posta Hotel is a beautiful combination of Italian and Austrian inspiration; the mix that makes South Tyrolean cuisine so special, in my opinion.
Kit preparation follows: today's line-up comes from Mavic, with their special edition Izoard kit. It seems appropriate, given a spectacular day on the mountain the day before, watching La Course and the Tour de France.
Today's route card shows my planned ride over Furcia, Cortina and Valparolo.









Furcia FirstThe first climb of the day is the Furcia pass. A twisty road up through chalets and…
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Review - Pinhead Locks Bicycle Security System

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It is ironic that the lighter your bike gets, the heavier the locks are that you need to carry. As the value of your wheels, frame and components rises, you will need more cables and longer locks, to leave it securely unattended. That is, unless you employ a system of coded component locks, like those from Canadian brand Pinhead Locks.

The complete bicycle security system from Pinhead Locks allows you to secure your wheels, seat-post, headset and frame; without the need for copious lengths of cable or lengthy U-bolt locks.

Wheel locks The wheels are a secured through coded axle nuts. Whether you are running thru-axles, quick-releases or solid axles, Pinhead Locks provide an axle option to fit.

Fitting them is simple: you just insert the axles, then use the unique coded key to tighten them up. Reverse the procedure to remove them.

The chance of a prospective thief having a correctly coded key is a tiny possibility; so you can safely leave your wheels in your bike when you lock up the f…
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