The Money Mustache Community

General Discussion => Throw Down the Gauntlet => Topic started by: jordanread on November 01, 2017, 07:17:13 AM

Title: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 01, 2017, 07:17:13 AM
The cycling challenge for November 2017 is up and ready for you to start (or continue) riding!!
If you logged miles last month, and selected "Remember Me" on the form, you have been added to this month's sheet already.

If you didn't log miles last month, or are a new participant
Click here to fill out the form. (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1X4xsp3Ns8qSEfC4f56Qbd4GIdGsIjAnERXoQ3YgqzxM/viewform)
You can access the sheet directly at this link (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1o1w8D9LVbNSWsF9gMeR4PJG8y5ZxlirAxWQAz9rTXRI/edit).
I can manually grab your historical data too, so if it's off, just let me know.  If they aren't there within a day, or you have any other issues with the sheet, hit me up via email, Google Hangouts, PM, or just comment on this thread.
You can also join the MMM Strava Group (https://www.strava.com/clubs/207737) for additional metrics and motivation. Happy Biking.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: meghan88 on November 01, 2017, 06:21:13 PM
Just wanted to say thanks for doing these.  I bike all year but generally don't log my biking in the Cycling Challenges from April-October because those are the easy glorious months (IMO), rain or shine.  Here in the Great White North, conditions are only a challenge from mid-November through mid-March.

After a truly shitty day (e.g., snowstorm, -20 degrees C), recording it in the challenge sheet is just about the only fun thing to do, aside from swearing like a sailor during the ride, and putting the bike away at the end of the day.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 01, 2017, 06:44:20 PM
I'm glad it brings you some joy. Keep on keeping on!!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: evensjw on November 01, 2017, 08:34:35 PM
Thanks for putting this together - I've just joined. I do mostly urban/cyclocross so doubt I'll be challenging the top of the leaderboard but still great motivation to crank out a few extra miles each ride.  I have to run an 8k next weekend, so I might not get off the mark until after that, but then I'll play some badass catch up in the second half of the month!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: TrMama on November 02, 2017, 03:27:11 PM
Thanks, Jordan! I like how you added the km conversion in the summary.

This month my goal is the same as last month. Hit 200km.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Primm on November 02, 2017, 10:50:22 PM
I was in this eons ago, but life happened.

However I'm back due to a combination of Husband's health improving meaning I don't need to be available to pick him up at any given moment (in a car), and a secondment at work meaning 8 hour days (instead of 12) and the flexibility to choose my own hours. So I'm going to do something I've been meaning to do for quite some time, and that's do a part-bike commute to work.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ohyonghao on November 03, 2017, 10:50:32 AM
Decided to post today to let people know I'm still around.  I've been going to college for the first time starting in June.  Sadly have not had as much time to ride, but have still been carless for 10 months :-D.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 09, 2017, 10:29:08 AM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Tass on November 09, 2017, 11:20:18 AM
Just been pointed to this thread. I'm a newbie living among a lot of steep hills, but I'm making progress.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 09, 2017, 11:39:54 AM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.

That would be why this challenge pits you against yourself only. The other aspect is camaraderie. The miles are just fun to see the cumulative effect on carbon emissions and the like. Glad to have you here. The challenge is to get on your own bike, and nothing else.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Kmp2 on November 09, 2017, 12:36:31 PM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.

LOL - if this was actually a challenge against everyone else I'd have been laughed out a long time ago. The number of times I've finished last :)

It's about beating your numbers from last week, or last November, and sharing the challenges you meet along the way.

I'm if not the furthest north pretty close and I've already ridden in deep snow below -18C (~0F) last week, on my upright (with studs) and 3 months pregnant... so no not all miles are created equal it was hard. It's not a race, it's a challenge to bike as far as you can, and to make as many car trips disappear as you want to :). I greatly prefer this to strava, the segments and PB's meant I wasn't enjoying my ride as much and speeds are particularly disheartening weighed down with a kid (or three)

Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Jesus on November 09, 2017, 04:13:12 PM
Ok Im a little late to the party but ill be going from now on!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 09, 2017, 05:55:26 PM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.

That would be why this challenge pits you against yourself only. The other aspect is camaraderie. The miles are just fun to see the cumulative effect on carbon emissions and the like. Glad to have you here. The challenge is to get on your own bike, and nothing else.

Thank you.  I am super stoked to be a member here.  Hope I can be a positive influence.

OK, I'm in.  I think we can only update Nov?  I assume Oct is closed?   Hope the google doc saved.  I'll check back tonight.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 10, 2017, 12:40:52 PM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.

That would be why this challenge pits you against yourself only. The other aspect is camaraderie. The miles are just fun to see the cumulative effect on carbon emissions and the like. Glad to have you here. The challenge is to get on your own bike, and nothing else.

Thank you.  I am super stoked to be a member here.  Hope I can be a positive influence.

OK, I'm in.  I think we can only update Nov?  I assume Oct is closed?   Hope the google doc saved.  I'll check back tonight.

PM me if you have daily stats. I can make your history appear (next month).



I'm getting fat and lazy. The better half really likes getting out and about. So I proposed doing our grocery run on bikes. We got two 10lb bags of rice, a 5lb thing of chicken, and miscellaneous veggies.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZYUPR-nvZPnnYQfV3RTxX8pIphWwAJo25ef3nNscj1qsQJx7FyCB8dcEEpCk0XZn7umWPYkHOLw6URynD0rQZ_tbtXxt2YqEsGmaDDBzb03QoVloaDOVGYdd601lVqJ4C5U45cynlPHcVbG-dhZn-xKEYlCIPyrEjTytWsztcvh-CxQpfyIFHSvzp878W_-O9W3JRbWoJTaMFg1NoCxspFhEf0XYSrGnSIRGT3MfSdzyD6ZS_CbX6GrtlYUBARO4fRoCqbAdVz17zNt5x6T6X-R0C2taSfpTrrSeiUFN5eZY729nvw7BZZPF3cTEaAT0odcilSNmGYzDS5RWQWqK4K9f1Ez7jQUt4g6RqbR9E6xka-XtBVM2sKL1edHEjHu37sG0gK2HCjYXEYNDUbtEoMTbhXwyHElCFphhSijYIBfky248gLZNMo6CXArHD2xnlQ6F_t8-3LS6Ljv5JMt1lHTUjjdsqcMNOYCjKho4Px4XHxGcRs2bHQyfHFZ0jg3_cSUR3ghMr1pg4IRJZ9SLvFrSxF_IsqEAS8Cti19a1QRjCQ5CLXzj0t2hBUzCV2By66puvUPENISWQy-gZ7Ko23Ws5ygT1d0evc6p9qVuNeI=w540-h959-no)

Also, I just got a BOB trailer from Craigslist. Haven't done shit with it yet, but I will!!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ohyonghao on November 10, 2017, 06:19:35 PM
Had a break from homework and a break from rain.  Rode out today to do a couple errands and take the long way home.  Wonderful sunset.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Tass on November 11, 2017, 10:36:10 AM
People of the internet: is changing a bike chain something I can do myself with no experience without breaking anything, or should I take it to the nearby shop?
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 11, 2017, 10:59:10 AM
There will be some adjusting that needs to happen.  It is a skilled labor sort of thing.

To have a bike that shifts nicely and runs optimally, hone those skills.  There are countless videos on the topic.

Diagnosing a poorly shifting bike is a little complex for someone without a mechanical mind.  Does the cable need tightening?  Chain stretch? B screw?  limit screws? do I need to bust out the DAG due to a bent hanger. 

So many things.  I am still learning, and I have been a rider for 20+ years.  I am lucky to have a master mechanic that acts like my pit crew.  I can do the simple stuff really easily, but I am clumsy with tools.  Dropping a wrench on my perfect frameset makes me cry a few real tears.  HAHA   
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Tass on November 11, 2017, 05:16:25 PM
I can't tell if that reply was intended for me or not... I've adjusted my shift cable tension myself before, but I'm asking about the chain. Because it's rusty, and I was told that will help eat away at my cassette faster as well. (The chain was rusty when I bought it, just for the record...)
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 11, 2017, 05:58:41 PM
I can't tell if that reply was intended for me or not... I've adjusted my shift cable tension myself before, but I'm asking about the chain. Because it's rusty, and I was told that will help eat away at my cassette faster as well. (The chain was rusty when I bought it, just for the record...)

Changing the chain isn't a huge deal as long as you don't bash your derailleurs . It's definitely something you can do yourself. It's been awhile since I've done it, but I think you don't need a too to put the magic link on.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 11, 2017, 09:52:18 PM

I hate this forums quote feature. 

...and KMP2 is a badass.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 12, 2017, 08:28:06 AM
Cycling challenges tend to favor those that bike on road bikes.  Being a mountainbiker, a 30 mile ride is very hard.  On a road bike, no biggie.

I almost joined the MMM Strava club, but not all miles are created equal.  I tend to ride technical trail, jumps, and stuff like that.  It doesn't equate well on a sheet.

LOL - if this was actually a challenge against everyone else I'd have been laughed out a long time ago. The number of times I've finished last :)

It's about beating your numbers from last week, or last November, and sharing the challenges you meet along the way.

I'm if not the furthest north pretty close and I've already ridden in deep snow below -18C (~0F) last week, on my upright (with studs) and 3 months pregnant... so no not all miles are created equal it was hard. It's not a race, it's a challenge to bike as far as you can, and to make as many car trips disappear as you want to :). I greatly prefer this to strava, the segments and PB's meant I wasn't enjoying my ride as much and speeds are particularly disheartening weighed down with a kid (or three)

Impressive.  We live above 4000 ft.  It snows but usually we don't get to your level of cold.  I am impressed with anyone that can still ride with kids in tow or being pregnant.  I'm a 49 year old DINK just living my life by my own rules. Moms that can do it all are Sheros.  I never had the guts.

Strava is fun fodder, but my reign seems to be ending these days on climbs.  I've got an impressive list of QOMs, but my list has dropped to only 7 pages long.  The younger ladies are smashing my uphill times.  My downhill times are still very impressive.  I still get downhill QOMs pretty easily.  I'm an enduro racer.   
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Jesus on November 14, 2017, 07:58:34 AM
I Love this, going to sell the car!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: TrMama on November 14, 2017, 09:58:52 AM
I can't tell if that reply was intended for me or not... I've adjusted my shift cable tension myself before, but I'm asking about the chain. Because it's rusty, and I was told that will help eat away at my cassette faster as well. (The chain was rusty when I bought it, just for the record...)

Changing the chain isn't a huge deal as long as you don't bash your derailleurs . It's definitely something you can do yourself. It's been awhile since I've done it, but I think you don't need a too to put the magic link on.

Changing the chain is super easy. If it has a magic link you don't need any tools. However if it's a cheap bike it may not have one of if it's really rusty you may not be able to get the magic link to release. In that case, you'll need a chain tool to break the chain.

Come to think of it, unless you ride with a super long chain, you'll need a chain tool to shorten the new chain to the correct length. The secret, easy tip for getting the new chain to the correct length is to lay the new one and the old one on a flat surface next to each other. Remove just enough links from the new one so it's the same # as the old one.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Tass on November 14, 2017, 02:19:30 PM
I can't tell if that reply was intended for me or not... I've adjusted my shift cable tension myself before, but I'm asking about the chain. Because it's rusty, and I was told that will help eat away at my cassette faster as well. (The chain was rusty when I bought it, just for the record...)

Changing the chain isn't a huge deal as long as you don't bash your derailleurs . It's definitely something you can do yourself. It's been awhile since I've done it, but I think you don't need a too to put the magic link on.

Changing the chain is super easy. If it has a magic link you don't need any tools. However if it's a cheap bike it may not have one of if it's really rusty you may not be able to get the magic link to release. In that case, you'll need a chain tool to break the chain.

Come to think of it, unless you ride with a super long chain, you'll need a chain tool to shorten the new chain to the correct length. The secret, easy tip for getting the new chain to the correct length is to lay the new one and the old one on a flat surface next to each other. Remove just enough links from the new one so it's the same # as the old one.

Between having to google what derailleurs are and this talk of needing a mysterious "chain tool" I am not feeling very confident in my DIY ability on this...
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: TrMama on November 14, 2017, 03:20:59 PM
I can't tell if that reply was intended for me or not... I've adjusted my shift cable tension myself before, but I'm asking about the chain. Because it's rusty, and I was told that will help eat away at my cassette faster as well. (The chain was rusty when I bought it, just for the record...)

Changing the chain isn't a huge deal as long as you don't bash your derailleurs . It's definitely something you can do yourself. It's been awhile since I've done it, but I think you don't need a too to put the magic link on.

Changing the chain is super easy. If it has a magic link you don't need any tools. However if it's a cheap bike it may not have one of if it's really rusty you may not be able to get the magic link to release. In that case, you'll need a chain tool to break the chain.

Come to think of it, unless you ride with a super long chain, you'll need a chain tool to shorten the new chain to the correct length. The secret, easy tip for getting the new chain to the correct length is to lay the new one and the old one on a flat surface next to each other. Remove just enough links from the new one so it's the same # as the old one.

Between having to google what derailleurs are and this talk of needing a mysterious "chain tool" I am not feeling very confident in my DIY ability on this...

You want one of these, https://www.amazon.ca/TRIXES-Chain-Splitter-Bicycle-Breaker/dp/B004Z6VU54/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510697870&sr=8-3&keywords=chain+tool+bicycle&dpID=41UN-7UsfzL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

And you should watch some YouTube videos on how to do it. I promise it's easy, peasy. I don't do all my own wrenching, but I can manage the chains.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Kmp2 on November 14, 2017, 04:28:08 PM
...and KMP2 is a badass.

Thanks, but the first rule of frostbiking - no bragging. It perpetuates the myth that winter biking is difficult.. it really isn't much different from snowshoeing or cross country skiing. Sure its harder than summer biking and it's a skill, but it's like the difference between summer walking and winter walking. You think about what you wear a bit more, and you take it a bit slower watching the ground for clues on its footing.

As for biking with kids, it's like everything else with kids - sometimes you win some and sometimes you lose some. We've got a working formula for now, but our 4.5 year old is quickly growing into her own bike which I'm sure will bring lots of challenges. Or I gotta start saving for an e-assist...

Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 14, 2017, 05:00:34 PM
Training ride today went somewhat awry.  Used some personal time to train and to help coach a friend.  My friend is just getting back into riding, after having a child.  I am helping her with the methods of it all.  So, I rode with her for an hour.  Then I had planned to get some good training done for myself. 

All was going well, until I got a front flat going at about 35mph on my CruX.  Holy smokes was that ever scary.  The bike was bucking and wouldn't steer.  I couldn't slam the brakes, because it was out of control.  I was afraid it would throw me off if I braked too forcefully.  So, I stayed calm and feathered the brakes until it came to a full stop.  I came to a full stop right before I went over this green zone into brambles and rock. My tubeless setup failed me.  It needs a re-juicing.  :)

I kinda just stood over my bike for a moment and reveled in my ability to stay calm in a messed up situation.  WHEW!

So, I repaired my tire and continued on.  I fell slightly low of my goal today, but still got in over 1900 ft of climbing.  Not bad.  Got my adrenaline pop for the day too. 
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 14, 2017, 05:30:37 PM
That is pretty badass, AC.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 14, 2017, 10:06:27 PM
Is this spoonchuckers magpie? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXtJ8F8joX0

Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on November 20, 2017, 05:10:43 PM
My funny for the day.  I get to work, and I realize that I left both of my pannier bags in the garage. 

So, I had to turn around and ride back home.  My clothes, my food, and everything was just left sitting in my garage.  That's a new one.

My bike sure felt light.  I assumed tailwind.  HAHA!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: TrMama on November 22, 2017, 12:13:11 PM
Has anyone else noticed that cars give you more space when you dress like a mentally unstable clown vs a normal person? Is it just me?

Why do I get so much more space and more polite passing when I wear my bright yellow clown coat compared to when I wear a team cycling jacket (close fitting, black and red)?

Ugh, I hate dressing like a clown, but I really like the extra respect it seems to garner.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 22, 2017, 12:27:52 PM
Has anyone else noticed that cars give you more space when you dress like a mentally unstable clown vs a normal person? Is it just me?

Why do I get so much more space and more polite passing when I wear my bright yellow clown coat compared to when I wear a team cycling jacket (close fitting, black and red)?

Ugh, I hate dressing like a clown, but I really like the extra respect it seems to garner.

Due to my upbringing, I dealt a lot with threatening situations, and I can definitively say that without any additional work, acting crazy is a great way to be given your space.

That being said, even wearing your jersey works. Most drivers think we are crazy anyway, so taking the lane and not being timid has a similar effect.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Kmp2 on November 22, 2017, 01:36:53 PM
Has anyone else noticed that cars give you more space when you dress like a mentally unstable clown vs a normal person? Is it just me?

Why do I get so much more space and more polite passing when I wear my bright yellow clown coat compared to when I wear a team cycling jacket (close fitting, black and red)?

Ugh, I hate dressing like a clown, but I really like the extra respect it seems to garner.

There are actually studies done trying to explain how driver behaviour changes based on the way cyclists dress... they have found that the more you look like a cyclist (lycra, road bike, helmet) the closer and faster cars pass you. Whereas the less you look like you know what your doing... (wearing a dress, upright, wobbly, kids in a bike seat, no helmet) the more respect you get from drivers - or maybe it's the less they respect your cycling skills the more cautious they are?

I have certainly noticed this as I have transitioned away from commuting on my road bike in hi-vis roadie wear, to an upright wearing my work clothes...
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 22, 2017, 02:15:07 PM
Has anyone else noticed that cars give you more space when you dress like a mentally unstable clown vs a normal person? Is it just me?

Why do I get so much more space and more polite passing when I wear my bright yellow clown coat compared to when I wear a team cycling jacket (close fitting, black and red)?

Ugh, I hate dressing like a clown, but I really like the extra respect it seems to garner.

There are actually studies done trying to explain how driver behaviour changes based on the way cyclists dress... they have found that the more you look like a cyclist (lycra, road bike, helmet) the closer and faster cars pass you. Whereas the less you look like you know what your doing... (wearing a dress, upright, wobbly, kids in a bike seat, no helmet) the more respect you get from drivers - or maybe it's the less they respect your cycling skills the more cautious they are?

I have certainly noticed this as I have transitioned away from commuting on my road bike in hi-vis roadie wear, to an upright wearing my work clothes...

Do you have a link to these studies?
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: Kmp2 on November 22, 2017, 02:59:36 PM
Here's what I can dig up right now,

http://drianwalker.com/overtaking/overtakingprobrief.pdf

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-helmets-attract-cars-to-cyclists/

It looks like the mary poppins effect is widely noted, but not much studied (other than riding with a wig...)

Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: the lorax on November 23, 2017, 10:29:00 PM
Hi
I've started biking again after a month or two off - any chance of recovering my historical info please? Thanks for organising this spreadsheet and thread Jordanread :)
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on November 24, 2017, 11:11:22 AM
Hi
I've started biking again after a month or two off - any chance of recovering my historical info please? Thanks for organising this spreadsheet and thread Jordanread :)

Just use the same username when you fill out the form, and it should automatically import your history. If it doesn't work, I'll get it manually taken care of.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: evensjw on November 30, 2017, 09:18:59 PM
This was fun!  I really enjoyed being a part of the challenge and can't wait to do it all again in December.

Hoping to find the courage to start bike-commuting at least one day a week.  It seems like a good way to rack up some miles.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on December 01, 2017, 05:57:14 AM
I'll get the December Challenge up as soon as I get to work. The post to the new thread will be put in here.
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: ACyclist on December 01, 2017, 09:29:16 AM
Thank you Jordanread for doing this for us.  This cycling challenge is making me feel more at home here.  I like biking a lot.  :)
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: jordanread on December 01, 2017, 10:08:54 AM
New Challenge is up right here (https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/throw-down-the-gauntlet/december-cycling-challenge-2017/),

And ACyclist, you are welcome!
Title: Re: November Cycling Challenge 2017
Post by: spoonchucker on December 03, 2017, 03:52:21 PM
Is this spoonchuckers magpie? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXtJ8F8joX0

Yep, thats the culprit....
They can get quite agressive during nesting season, you have to crack 40kph (25 mph) to outrun them!!
Luckily the season is only 6 weeks or so.... adds some excitment to the ride :)

spoochucker...