New Technology Makes Pearl Izumi's 2011 Cycling Apparel Line a Real Gem

Pearl Izumi, one of the leading manufacturers of cycling apparel in the United States, chose to debut its new line of cutting-edge technologies--including the new 4D Chamois and In-R-Cool, Transfer Aero, and Transfer Minerale fabrics--at Interbike, the world's largest industry trade show. BicyclingHub.com staff sat down with representatives to glean more information and catch a sneak peak at forecasted best-sellers for the Spring/Summer 2011 line.

While "trickle-down economics" has its detractors, Pearl Izumi's commitment to "trickle down technology" has already gained some traction in the marketplace with both its P.R.O. and Elite lines of cycling apparel. New fabrics designed and developed for professional athletes (such as In-R-Cool) are now available to consumers at a competitive price point, without compromising on quality or design.

Dare to Wear Black on Even the Hottest of Days: In-R-Cool Reduces Perspiration while Blocking the Sun's Rays

Planning a cycling vacation through France's renowned Loire Valley in steamy July, or continuing your usual group rides in Miami, Florida straight through the hothouse month of August? Now you can stay as cool as you look in Pearl Izumi's vividly-colored jerseys and cycling shorts with proprietary In-R-Cool technology, designed to reduce fabric's surface temperature while increasing both performance and comfort by reducing perspiration--up to 50% more when compared to traditional black performance wear. By creating a fabric that brings reflective cooling benefits of white to dark materials, In-R-Cool deflects harmful UV rays and provides UPF 50+ sun protection.

To further enhance comfort, In-R-Cool utilizes a special perspiration-activated technology that cools body surface temperature by 5%--one more way to keep you cool, even under the hottest conditions. So before you plunk down the benjamins on one of those expensive, new-fangled "cooling vests" some of the pros have been sporting during the Tour de France, consider slipping into the P.R.O. LTD Speed Jersey or Elite Jersey and In-R-Cool bib shorts instead. Both your body and your wallet will thank you.

Another new innovation up Pearl's sleeve? TRANSFER with Minerale fabric is comprised of finely crushed volcanic rock designed to draw moisture away from the skin. These natural minerals create a porous yarn structure, increasing both moisture transfer and odor absorption: two key elements to sustained comfort levels, especially on long rides. With an enhanced dry rate up to 50% faster than regular performance polyester, cyclists can eschew the discomfort of a soggy wet top and stay focused on the road ahead.

And for the track fiends and time-trial junkies, where aerodynamics are crucial and every second counts (literally)? Pearl is proud to present Transfer Aero. Often paired with In-R-Cool in a garment, this fabric is uniquely textured and positioned in strategic areas to reduce wind drag by over 15%, when compared to traditional flat performance fabrics.

Cold Black: similar to In-R-Cool, Cold Black technology reflects UV rays away from the body, enabling the cyclist to remain just as cool in a black jersey as a white one.

Still haven't seen enough? Take a Seat.

New for 2011 is Pearl Izumi's 4D Chamois Pad, available in the full men's and women's P.R.O. lines. The biggest change from its predecessor, the already-comfy 3D Chamois (still found in the Elite line of shorts and bib shorts for men and women) is its pre-shaped anatomic cut, providing 4-way stretch to conform perfectly with a body in motion, The 4D chamois folds while sitting, so the natural position of your body is molded to its form. And 12 mm of 3-layer variable density padding and new foam technology allow for a 35% lighter chamois.

Also new from Pearl Izumi: all white cycling shorts for both men and women will be made with grey chamois pads to allay any fears that color chamois won't bleed in the wash. "If you're fast enough to rock the white," as one of the Pearl Izumi representatives commented, you can now ride with extra confidence!

Got a question about Pearl's different levels of chamois in their Select, Elite and P.R.O. lines of apparel? Call your favorite cycling clothing experts toll-free at 1-888-817-8060 and we'd be glad to share our advice, experience and expertise.

Pearl Jam!

Team-inspired construction and performance fabrics in the Elite LTD jerseys are combined with sublimated graphics and Direct-Vent side panels for style, performance and comfort. Combine with matching Elite LTD bib shorts, as shown in the models above, and you've got a full team kit ensemble as colorful as you.

Women's Specific Designs are the Designated Ringers of Pearl Izumi's 2011 Catalog

(left): Japanese cherry blossoms and detailed stitching on the Women's Elite LTD jersey and matching Elite LTD shorts makes this one of our favorite women's kits in the Pearl peloton.

"These aren't men's jerseys just sized down anymore; it's a complete women's line," explains our San Diego Pearl Izumi Rep.

After perusing the collection for ourselves and noting the fine details stitched within each piece, down to the cursive scripting on every women's jersey or shorts; the flattering designs incorporating hour-glass shaped color blocks to give its wearers a slender, trim-to-waistline appearance; angled jersey pockets to provide easy, on-bike access; larger grippers that are welded, not stitched to lie flat against the leg, rather than the dreaded "sausage casing;" and a well-stocked library of color stories to aid in easy accessorizing and matching of tops and bottoms, we couldn't agree more.

Pearl's taken their compression-style shorts to a whole new level for the new year. We love the detailing on these 2011 P.R.O. In-R-Cool Shorts for women, pictured above, right down to the cuff line. Cycling shorts that grip the leg securely to prevent ride-up, without cutting into the leg? Sign us up.

Pearl Izumi's new 2011 Ultrastar shorts for women, such as the White Spyro seen here, have a little something extra: waistband and cuffs that can be rolled up to show off some extra design and flair. Whether you roll them up or lie flat against the skin, you can wear them to spin class or the next group ride and feel fit, fast, comfortable and ready for anything. Non-constricting leg gripper = "anti-sausage effect"--a nice bonus!

Our Favorite Innovation in the Upcoming Spring/Summer 2011 Collection

Note the new radio pocket, left, to be included in the P.R.O. and Elite lines of jerseys for both men and women. Designed as an extra hidden rear jersey pocket, this sweat-proof storage compartment is a convenient place to stash your cell phone, GPS unit or music player without fearing the sweat of your labor will render your electronics incapacitated. And with a built-in cord plug for easy access to your IPod, MP3 player or team radio, you'll never miss a call up to the front again.

Bicyclinghub.com is moving November 1, 2010

BicyclingHub.com is moving to 642 SE Stark Street

We are excited to announce that BicyclingHub.com is moving at the end of this month!  Our new location will allow us to expand on our retail presence here in Portland. We shall continue to offer outstanding customer service online, and will be looking to extend this same level of service, face to face, to our local customers starting in February of 2011.
We have the largest selection of quality men's and women's cycling clothing in the Pacific Northwest!


Our new address is 642 SE Stark Street, Portland, OR 97214.  If you're visiting Portland be sure to stop by and say "hello"

Oregon Handmade Bicycle Show: Building More Bicycle-Friendly Communities, One Frame at a Time

"If you build it, they will come:" that's the intent, at least, behind the Third Annual Oregon Handmade Bicycle Show happening this weekend in the cycling hub of Portland, Oregon. With over 35 exhibitors at the Sandbox Studio gathered to feature some of the country’s finest handmade bicycles, related artisanal products, and their creators, and an expected 2,000 individuals in attendance over the course of the two-day event (October 9th-10th), this goal may very well be realized in abundance. New for 2010, the show is expanding its offerings to include educational programming and seminars on topics such as Injury Prevention for Cyclists and Bike Fit and Custom Frame Design, provided by Upper Echelon Fitness and Bodywise Physical Therapy. Representatives from United Bicycle Institute (UBI) will also be on hand to answer questions from both professionals and the general public. (photo left): Jude Kirstein of Epic Wheelworks creates revolutions in her studio every day.

With the theme of "Hands Hammers Files and Fire Make Bicycles," attendees will have the unique opportunity to view the latest designs (some constructed specifically for the show) and chat with custom frame builders such as Ahearne Cycles, Land Shark Bicycles and Sprout Cycles about their craftsmanship, choice of materials, and why one might consider an independent frame builder versus a mass-produced model found in a traditional bike shop when shopping for the bicycle of their dreams. Looking to outfit the special lady in your life with a custom steel frame that incorporates the "four elements"--"beautiful, Italian, simple and classy--into each design? Contact M.J. at BellaDonna Cycles. Need haul a serious--we mean, serious-- amount of gear? Look no further than cargo bike specialists at Metrofiets to help you take a load off. Want to share that special blend of cycling love with your companion? Co-Motion Cycles, based out of Eugene, Oregon, can put you on a custom "bicycle built for two" that's as unique and distinctive as your relationship.

(left): Andy Newlands right at home in UBI's Portland campus with one of his women's steel rigs.

Strawberry Bicycles

Doing business since: 1971 (39 years and counting!)

Speciality: steel and and specially-designed castings

Average length of time per order: 6 months

Estimated cost: frame, fork & headset starts at $1,600; complete build ranges between $3,000-$4,000

Why Portland? When the question was put to Andy Newlands, owner/proprietor of Strawberry Bicycle, he stated simply, "Beer and bikes--how much better can it get?" Adopting a more serious demeanor, he cited the City of Portland's exemplary bicycle planning, bike routes, and friendliness towards two-wheeled, non-motorized modes of transportation as key factors when selecting a venue. Indeed, the Oregon Bicycle Constructors Association, founded in 2007, was initially spurred by a series of meetings between the City of Portland and the Portland Development Commission regarding what might be done to support the bicycling industry. Newlands, amongst others, co-founded the OBCA to bring dedicated frame builders together in order to strengthen their voice within the industry and provide much-needed business and marketing expertise to complement their engineering and/or artistic backgrounds. While he considers it analogous to "herding a bunch of cats," the 3 year old organization is already 40 members strong, with the majority of exhibitors based within Portland's city limits. "[Portland] is the nexus of everything," Newlands states.

(right): Wayne Beauchamp with "The Back 40," his 2005 steel single-speed 29er. With a commute that consists of 3 miles of singletrack and 4 miles of dirt roads into town, this trail-worthy bike doubles as an excellent commuter.

Vulture Cycles

Doing business since: 1996 (incorporated in 1999)

Average number of frames built per year: 37

Average length of time per order: 3-6 months

Estimated cost: frame & fork: $1,700; complete build ranges between $3,500-$4,000

"For me, [the show's] about getting out of the shop and talking to humans," jests Wade Beauchamp, owner and sole proprietor of Vulture Cycles. "It's a chance to see a whole bunch of people who make bikes and love bikes, new friends, and old. Mostly, it's about getting the word out and creating awareness--hey, I exist."

Based 7 miles outside of Bend, Oregon, he specializes in handmade steel mountain-bikes. "Single-speed 29ers are kinda my bread and butter," he remarks while showing off a 2005 purple argyle beauty he dubbed "The Back 40." But that may soon change: in 2009, he started developing a new line of "Town and Country" bikes with a road/cyclocross geometry and disc brakes. The target audience? "They're built for those who want to ride around town, and then escape to the country."

While carbon fiber remains one of the most highly-coveted objects of desire amongst the racing set and club riders alike, due to its lightweight and vibration-dampening properties, most of the frame builders you'll find here choose to work with steel as their preferred medium. "As a builder, steel is a phenomenal material to worth with--especially the variety of tubing available," Rob Tsunehiro comments. "It allows you to really fine-tune a bike frame."

(left): Rob Tsunehiro proudly displays a custom steel commuter bike built for customer in Bend.

Tsunehiro Bicycles

Doing business since: 2008

Average number of frames built per year: 12

Average length of time per order: 3 months

Estimated cost: Frame & fork starts at $1,800; complete build ranges between $3,000-$6,000

A fairly recent newcomer to the custom frame-building scene, Rob launched Tsunehiro Cycles in 2008 shortly before the economy began to take a nose dive and Americans tightened their collective belts (and wallets). But despite the recession and uncertainties in the economy, Tsunehiro is happy to report he's still been able to maintain a steady line of work, with new orders matching his pace.

Why choose an independent, one-man operation over a larger competitor, such as Serotta, Independent Fabrications or Seven? Tsunehiro is quick to list the advantages: "I can offer a higher level of customization, incorporating a specific blend of features into your dream bicycle. Building a custom bike offers a much broader range of choices than stock geometry, design or components; customers in the area can come to the shop and visit the work in progress; they're able to have direct interaction [with me]; and they're part of the decision-making process." His favorite part of the building process? "I really enjoy sitting down with customers to talk about how and where they like to ride…Together, we come up with the best solutions, such as how to accommodate a bigger tire for commuting [if that's what they want.]"

What keeps the bicycle business growing for these manufacturers? According to Tsunehiro, residing in the vibrant and eclectic bike culture of Portland has been an "eye-opening experience" from the industry perspective. "Every kind of cyclist is here--not just the serious 'street warrior.' Everyone's out riding…You're exposed to so many more cycling programs, such as the Community Cycling Center, making cycling accessible to everyone, and that really excites me...The safe bike infrastructure, and promoting cycling as a lifestyle some the something that's really healthy for individuals and or community. It's a big part of what drives me to make this my life's work."

To learn more about the unique benefits and beauty of the Oregon handmade bicycle, visit the Sandbox Studio at 420 NE 9th Avenue in Portland, OR between 10am-6pm October 9th-10th, or consult oregonhandmadebicycleshow.com for more information.

Castelli Winter 2010 Top Picks

Save 10% off Castelli Winter items when you spend $100 or more. Enter Code Castelli10 during checkout to save an additional 10% on all Castelli high-performance items. Ends October 17th!

1) Castelli Pave Bibtight and Castelli Claudio Bib Short

Here at BicyclingHub.com, we were so impressed with Castelli’s introduction of the Nanoflex fabric in their Pave Bib Tights, Claudio Bib Shorts and Nanoflex arm, leg and knee warmers - that we were hard pressed to pick one item.

Nanoflex is a new fabric exclusively engineered by Castelli. Thousands of tiny silicone nanofilaments coat Castelli’s thermoflex fabric to create one of the most water-repellent fabric finishes we’ve seen! The treatment allows water drops to roll or bounce off of the fabric without leaving any wet spots. The silicone nanofilaments also trap a layer of air between them for added insulation. Each of the Castelli products made using Nanoflex has different areas where they really excel, and we are sure you too will find a favorite amongst the range.

Melissa Cate The Pave Bib Tights are a great all-around Winter bib tight made with Castelli's Revolutionary NanoFlex fabric. Through the presence of tiny invisible hairs on the fabric, (like the fuzz on a peach) these bib tights actually allow water to roll right off you! Perfect for keeping you drier in inclement Spring and Fall weather when there's a chance for rain, but it's too warm to wear rain pants. The bib straps on these tights are incredibly comfortable. They also have a very subtle, (but very stylish) Scorpion logo on one hip that I've fallen in love with. Also, these Pave Bib Tights feature Castelli’s popular (and comfortable!) Kiss3 chamois and reflective ankle zippers to boot!

Doug Duguay On September 3, 2010 I left for Montana to ride the Park 2 Park Montana. The temperatures in Montana were unseasonably cold and I didn't pack enough cold weather gear aside from my Castelli Claudio Bib Shorts. Not only were the temperatures down in the 30's in the mornings, we also were in more than one rain shower and we even rode through a hail storm! No problem, the Claudio Bib Shorts, combined with my NanoFlex Arm and Leg warmers, handled it all, keeping me warm and dry and very happy.

2) Castelli Nanoflex Arm Warmers, Leg Warmers and Knee Warmers

Check out our Youtube video! Winter-weight warmers are always a great way to extend your wardrobe as well as battle ever-changing weather. With the addition of a lightweight fleece that sheds water from that occasional rain shower, the Claudio Bib Short and Nanoflex arm, knee and leg warmers are multi-season, multi-purpose-you can't go wrong! BicyclingHub.com has been excited for Nanoflex product to arrive, since we first heard about the new technology earlier this year.

Castelli says:
Roger Hammond, who lives in the heart of Belgium, does most of his winter training in the area around Brussels and also in the UK. Carlos Sastre lives about 1000m above sea-level in the mountains north of Madrid in Spain. Both riders were looking for something to keep them warm and dry during their winter preparation and both are more than happy with Castelli's Nanoflex products for 2010.

“This new water-repellent fabric not only bounce off the water drops, it insulates and wicks the moisture away quickly so I don’t get that cold, clammy feeling any longer.”-Carlos Sastre

3) Trasparente Wind Jersey

The Trasparente was voted "best product Castelli has ever made!” by Castelli’s testers. This jacket features stretchy Gore Windstopper X-Lite fabric on the front and around the neck, providing both wind and water resistance. Castelli Warmer fabric on the rear of the jersey and the sleeves will provide enough warmth with breathability so that you do not overcook in this garment. Castelli has long recognized the importance of Wind Stopper Fabric in their winter riding collection and, based on our collective cool Winter riding experience, we very much share this view.

Melissa Cate This jersey is my absolute favorite piece in Castelli's line. Don't think of it as a jersey--think of it as a jersey and jacket in one. With the Windproof front panel and the fleeced back, this jersey keeps you warm in the Winter and is also perfect for cool Spring and Fall riding when it's often windy. It features a flip-up collar for extra neck protection. I love the thumbloop feature on the sleeves which mean that they will never creep and leave your wrists exposed to the cold-brilliant! Well worth the investment when you consider the features and how much it will extend your wardrobe.

4) Women's Invidia Jacket

Don't let cold conditions keep you off the bike! Castelli's Windstopper X-Fast Fabric by Gore stops the wind dead in its tracks, forming a protective barrier that keeps heat IN and cold Winter chills OUT. Not only does Windstopper protect you from the wind, it is also highly breathable and will keep you dry from the inside. The Invidia from Castelli is an eye catching jacket that provides superior protection from the elements.

Melissa Cate This jacket feels like luxury! I've quickly become a big fan of it for many reasons. My favorite feature is the wide stretchy elastic waist band in the rear. It made for a very comfortable and complimentary fit. The exterior shell is made of Breathable Gore Wind stopper fabric that offers complete wind protection. The interior of the jacket has a warm brushed fleece that is very nice and adds a lot of warmth without bulk. Additional two-thumbs-up features are a flip-up collar that is great for extra warmth around the neck on the coldest of days and the 2 full sized rear pockets that are slightly slanted for ease of use on the bike. The cut makes it super easy to get items in and out of the pocket, and I'm really impressed with the depth of the pockets on this jacket. It's hard to find women's gear, (especially jackets!) which has pockets that are large enough to hold all you might need on a Winter ride. Two rear reflective tabs further catch the eye, and finish off this great piece nicely!

5) Vincente Donna Glove (Women's) and Pioggia Glove (Men's)

These are the gloves you will need for those day's where your friends ask, "You went out in this weather?!" These should be your go-to gloves for those colder days, to keep your hands nice and cozy on those nippy winter rides. A more padded glove with a warm fleece insulating layer and a waterproof membrane, these gloves will retain heat and keep your hands dry. A no-slip palm means you can keep a good grip on those bars in all kinds of weather.

	Kevin Langton: Men’s Pioggia Glove “These certainly are my go-to gloves for the depths of Winter. I'm a long one (6'4") and my extremities tend to get very cold in the winter. I’ve had, and do own, other Winter weight gloves but these are the ones that I find the warmest. They help me make it through January and February here in Portland, without getting frostbitten! Plenty of reflective piping on the back of this glove makes those hand-signalled turns a little more visible to fellow road users on those dark commutes home.”

Melissa Cate Women’s Vincente Donna Glove I product tested this glove all Winter long in 2009/2010. It is another multi-purpose piece that Castelli really excels at. It has great features like ample reflective piping, a longer cuff to keep your wrists warm and a no slip palm. The best feature on this glove is that it protects your fingers from the wind and keeps them nice and warm on colder days without overheating you on warmer days. I wore this glove in a temperature range of 50 degrees right down to colder 25-degree days and I was very comfortable throughout that temperature range. I found it even managed to stay dry in light sprinkles and rain showers!

6) Castelli Leggerezza SG0.6 Jacket

The Leggerezza has been one of the most internationally popular and raved about winter jackets that BicyclingHub.com features. One BicyclingHub.com customer writes, “This is a great jacket. In rain it even feels waterproof. It makes you feel comfortable, warm and dry inside.” The extra-light SG0.6 WIND fabric is made from hollow-core fibers that trap air to provide additional warmth in a jacket that seems impossibly thin and light. We love it's simple but stylish design and multi-season functionality and think you will too!

Doug Duguay Comprised of Windstopper stretch fabric on the front and sleeves and thermal panels designed to keep you warm and dry, this jacket offers 3-season versatility at an affordable price point. A key selling feature are the zip-off removable sleeves (easily stowed in one of its roomy 3 rear pockets), allowing you to readily adapt to changing conditions and ride in comfort. Our customers agree!

7) Castelli MC Wool Long Sleeve Jersey and Castelli Women's Opera Wool Long Sleeve Jersey

The MC Wool jersey is quickly becoming BicyclingHub.com’s number one selling item. Here's why we love this jersey- 70% wool and washable 30% acrylic blend makes this full-zip jersey easy to care for. Complete with three rear pockets.

Castelli Women's Opera Wool Long Sleeve Jersey is great wool blend jersey that is cute cute cute. Classically styled with cool Castelli embroidery on the chest for great looks, it features three back pockets, which are rare for a women's jersey! It also features a 50% Merino Wool and 50% fine gauge washable acrylic blend to make it easy to take care of and give it a great soft feel against the skin.

Doug Duguay “With its cool, modern-meets-retro styling, the Castelli MC Wool Long Sleeve Jersey makes an awesome gift to meet most tastes. This will be our best seller for the Holidays in 2010.”

8) Castelli Polare Bibtight

With an optimal temperature range between 32-46 degrees Fahrenheit, "Baby, it's cold outside" is no longer going to cut it as an excuse for skipping out on a hearty commute or big group ride next time the temperature drops. Castelli's stretchy Windstopper (TM) X-Fast fabric in the front panels provide warmth, wind protection and water repellency, and up to 10 times better breathability than competitors's windproof fabrics.

Doug Duguay Castelli’s warmest bib tight combines Windstopper fabric with their heaviest Thermafleece fabric. Guaranteed to keep you toasty in the most blustery winter weather you dare ride in.

9) Castelli Merino Wool Long Sleeve Baselayer

Here at BicyclingHub.com, we've quickly become a convert to Castelli's Base Layers which help keep you dry, and comfortable. During one of our "Try and Touch" testing sessions," we had a hard time letting these Baselayers out of our hands! Soft to the touch, this ultra fine 100% Australian merino wool doesn’t itch, while keeping you warm and dry. It was a tough choosing just one because Castelli makes some incredible baselayers, including the SG0.6 Wind Shirt, Airco Longsleeve and the Uno Plasma.

	Kevin Langton: “Beware, Merino Wool is highly addictive.” You have been warned!

10) Castelli Fusione Jacket and Vest

Light, breathable, water-resistant: are all words used to describe the Fusione. This jacket weights about 10 ounces and stuffs neatly in your jersey pocket. With 4 large sized vents and Gore’s highly breathable Windstopper fabric you will never get that clammy feeling inside this jacket and/or vest.

Doug Duguay I've always liked vests for 3 season riding. Castelli's Fusione Vest is the best vest I've ever tried. It fits great and Gore's Windstopper fabric breathes really well keeping me warm and dry. My perfect outfit for the Winter would certainly include a pair of Castelli Claudio bibs, a BicyclingHub.com jersey (by Castelli), Nanoflex Arm Warmers, Nanoflex Leg Warmers and a Castelli Fusione Vest.

"Everything in bicycling is about evolution:" an interview with Eddy Merckx

Eddy Merckx, five-time winner of the Tour de France and often regarded one of the greatest living cycling legends of all time, was on-hand at Interbike 2010 to debut his new line of 2011 high-end road frames and shake hands of adoring fans from across the globe. BicyclingHub.com staff member Jennifer Clunie met up with him in Las Vegas to discuss some of the most memorable moments of his cycling career, and how we might improve conditions for cyclists in America.

According to the Cycling Hall of Fame, "His record of 525 victories, including 445 as a professional, is untouchable." Nicknamed “The Cannibal” for his insatiable appetite for victories (as well as his ability to destroy rivals), Merckx has won a record 34 Tour de France stage wins, including 6 stages in 1969 and 1972, and 8 stages in 1970 and 1974. Winning each of cycling’s five monuments (Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liege-Bastogne-Liege, Tour of Lombardy) more than twice, for a record of nineteen victories, he also holds the distinction of winning the Giro d'Italia five times and the Vuelta a Espana once for a total of eleven Grand Tour victories.

JC: What was one of your most rewarding experiences in your professional cycling career?

EM: "I think for me I best remember the Tour de France 1969 because it had been 30 years since a Belgian guy won the Tour. So for me it was a kid's dream becoming reality."

JC: What stood out most in '69?

EM: "It was the stage from Luchon to Mourenx and in the break was the yellow jersey 140 KM and I was the leader in the Tour de France and they arrived 8 minutes behind me…7:52 I think."

JC: And what was one most challenging experiences or difficult moments in your career? Something that pushed you beyond the limits?

EM: "In 1977 the stage over Alp d' Huez because I was sick…some food infection….the hardest moment."

JC: How did you overcome that?

EM: "You overcome that because when you're at the Alp d'Huez, the day after you still have a stage to do. You recover at night and that's it."

JC: You still have a job to get done?

EM: "Yeah, it's part of the job."

(pauses, then continues) "The hardest moment--maybe even harder--was the hour record in Mexico in 1972. The hour record, because you long to beat the hour record and after 40 minutes you think you can't make it. You're not putting any more into the legs, things like that. And 40 min to 50 min--boy--it's really hard, hard, hard. Suffering, suffering, and suffering again. Then when 50 minutes you see a hand--the hour record. And then 9, 8, 7…then you beat the hour record and it's surely a great moment. The most suffering hour in my career."

JC: Your son Axel has decided to follow in your footsteps, as best he can, into the pro cycling circuit and has done extremely well. What do you think as a father about him following your footsteps?

EM: "For him it would be very hard, no? But because it's his choice that I tell him, you know, that I was happy my parents had me ride so I cannot say 'you cannot ride.' You have to do what you like to do. But I think he was doing a pretty good career. Because he was a Merckx it was not easy for him. All the riders--especially in the young categories--when you go to the start they'll say, 'Merckx is there. Try to be for him.' They don't say, 'Win the race, but be for Merckx. Beat Merckx.' So for him, it was a lot of pressure, too. but he likes it."

JC: How did you start your son cycling? Family rides?

EM: "He was playing soccer and then sometime in the winter when they have the competition he goes with me on the track in Ghent and rides the bike in Ghent."

JC: How old was he at this time?

EM: "He was 10, 11 years old. but before he also biked with me to school or race bikes."

JC: So he began on the track and said, "I want to be like dad"?

EM: "Yeah. I think the track is a very good school for cycling. I would say it's the best school for cycling."

JC: Bradley Wiggins would agree with you on that. :) When people ask, "How can you possibly win so many different areas of your sport: criteriums, roubaixs, one-day stage races, multi-day events like the Tour?...

EM: "My parents made me." [laugher]

"I think you need talent, but also I worked very hard. And in the big races, yeah, you ride to make a name. And then in the small races the organizers pay you, and also the people coming to watch the criteriums pay for watching the criteriums. I think it's not professional if you only ride so they pay for saying you're winning. So I try to win. That's why I was winning so much. Because in the big races I ride to make a name, and the small races b/c I was paid to do these races."

JC: One of your famous quotes in regards to advice for training and getting fast was: "Ride lots."

EM: "First of all, you need talent. And then you also never have to think that you've arrived. As difficult as it is to arrive to the top, it's more difficult to stay at the top. So I think because that you're on top you cannot think have nowhere to train; you have to train harder because you have more competitors and on the end the other riders going to try--it's tough to win--so you don't lose the race."

JC: Do you think that people should target specific training goals (i.e., if you're a track rider, focus on track, if you're a crit rider, focus on crits) or they should adopt more of your perspective?

EM: "You have to do everything, I think, to be a complete rider. Riders focus more now on circuit races and also stage races but it must be possible to do both; if everybody does the same, you can do it. But now the Tour has become so big most of the riders focus on the Tour de France; but there's only one winner in the Tour de France. It's more pressure on the riders now because more newspapers, more TV channels…it's even harder. Also the material's different--but it's still the hardest sport."

JC: Speaking of materials, tell me about the Eddy Merckx bikes. And if I buy one, am I going to ride as fast as you?

EM: (without hesitation) "No, I don't think so. You cannot ride as fast as me. (shared laughter) Maybe you can be faster--maybe you have more talent than me. I'm not the godfather."

JC: How does that tie into your vision for the future of cycling, your brand and your products?

EM: "Everything is evolution. if you think that my bike that won the world championship in 1964 in Sallanches: the weight was 11 kilo 150. And now the bikes are 6 kilo 800; you cannot go under. so you can understand that they make change; also, the materials change. I think the big change is the click [clipless] pedals and also the changes in the brakes because driving is much easier…In my time, you have to sit down on the seat, change, and then go back, so it's completely different. But for everybody it's the same--so it changes nothing in the result."

JC: Where do you see the future of cycling going, both in the professional circuit and in terms of everyday riding?

EM: "Oh, I think you ride every day. Look at the basketball player; he also plays 2-3 times a week so he can be happy and he can be healthy and he recovers. he lives the sport then; it's the life. You train him that. You recover; you train. So If you get hurt; if you crash; it's possible."

JC: How do you think we can get here in America the same kind of mode shares that we throughout Europe? For example, Amsterdam has a 40% mode share of trips by bike; Denmark is close to 36%.

EM: "It's the work of the people who make the cities; when you make the roads, you have to provide the bike roads [bike lanes] so the people can go safely to work; so the kids can go safely to the school. that's why Netherlands is such an example; because they were put in a long time ago. Also, bikes were the way to go from one point to another point--circulation. In the beginning it was only the cars--big roads, fast; now, the roads become smaller because too many cars, pollution, accidents, things like that. So the speed is reduced. So before you could go as fast as you wanted on the highway; now it's limited . I think it's important that people in government, when they decide to build new roads, that they also think to make bike roads for the kids, also for the people who go to work.

"You don't stay in the queues [of cars]--you can can pass; the psychology; and it's good for your health. I think cycling is the most healthy sport for somebody who gets into a sport because if you go run, you have problems with your knees and things like that: the bike puts the weight of your body on the bike..."

JC: So we need to have complete streets on our roadways here in the US?

EM: Yes.

Showers Pass STORMS Vegas

New and improved products featured at Interbike hit the market just in time for Fall

Last week (September 20th-24th) the cycling industry gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada for five busy days of product demos, launches, business meetings and events known as Interbike. An annual event that gathers more than 1,100 cycling-related brands and close to 23,000 total attendees, the country's largest bicycle trade show proved to be the ideal location for Showers Pass to display four of its new and improved products: the Elite Pro jacket, the Protech ST jacket, Storm Rain Pants and the Cycling Helmet Cover.

BicyclingHub.com sent three staff members to scour the Vegas showroom floor and meet with manufacturers so that we might bring our customers the latest and greatest in the bicycling industry, with live updates via Facebook and Twitter. At the top of our list of booths to visit were our friends and neighbors at Showers Pass. A brand that's been long recognized and sought after by cycling enthusiasts and long-distance riders as offering some of the best-fitting, best-ventilated and most breathable outerwear on the market, elite road riders and racers have recently discovered the Portland, Oregon-based company and asked them to adapt products to meet their specific needs.

	Don't miss the Showers Pass Sale at BicyclingHub.com! Stock up on high-performance outerwear guaranteed keep you warm and dry throughout fall and winter. Enter Code SHOWERS10 during checkout to save an additional 10% on all Showers Pass items. Ends October 10th, 2010!

"Those riders are out training for hours in the weather," notes Ed Dalton, Co-President/Principal at Showers Pass. "Our Elite 2.0 & Double Century jackets fit a fairly wide range of cyclists and their needs; [but] those products don't perfectly fit an elite road rider that wants a trimmer, more contoured fit." When approached with the request, "Can you build something for us?," Showers Pass entered the elite road market this past spring; two new jackets making their debut this fall, the Elite Pro and the Pro Tech ST, were engineered with the elite road rider in mind.

Just another day at the office: Showers Pass Co-President Ed Dalton field-testing gear during Cycle Oregon.

According to Dalton, the Elite Pro uses a proprietary lightweight, waterproof and breathable fabric named ELITE fabric (™) which, in conjunction with built-in core venting zips, a rear vent panel across the shoulder blades and adjustableVelcro cuffs, helps to ensure maximum ventilation while keeping the cyclist dry--minus the cold and clammy feeling riders often experience once they begin to overheat in attire with minimal or no ventilation. Most notably, weighing in at an incredibly-light 244 grams, the Elite Pro can be folded and stowed in a jersey pocket once the sun emerges from the clouds--a versatility fans of the Elite 2.0 can now enjoy for the first time. "It's the lightest-weight, three-layer fabric we have ever seen with the performance level this fabric has," Dalton remarks. "We wanted to make a product super high-performance, super light-weight, and super packable--that's what we did with the Elite Pro."

Also making its (re) introduction to the public is the Pro Tech ST. Evolved from their Pro Tech jacket, a clear transparent waterproof stretch membrane shell designed to keep riders dry (while still ensuring team kits and/or race numbers can still be seen by officials), Showers Pass tweaked the design to improve both fit and performance. "The piece fit a wide range [of cyclists], from the elite road rider to the enthusiast to the recreationalist who wanted an emergency rain piece--but it wasn't as appropriate in terms of fit for that elite rider," Dalton explains. New and improved features include a sleek and trimmed fit, similar to the Elite Pro; a lengthened back to increase protection from road spray; a large back vent re-engineered so even when down in the drops, it stays open to help regulate body temperature; a two-way front zipper; and, with each seam now seam-taped (hence the name Pro Tech ST), the chances of water being driven in are drastically reduced.

But if you think Showers Pass caters to only the upper echelons of the race circuit, think again. With a market that includes racers, commuters, messengers, two-wheeled travelers and a general cycling population passionate about the bike, Dalton chalks up their success in their ability to appeal to such a diverse audience by offering products specifically created for said users.

Long-distance touring cyclist and randonneurs especially have embraced the Elite 2.0 jacket as the centerpiece of their functional cycling attire. According to Dalton, "They actually call that 'The Pass' jacket. 'Have you got your Pass jacket? . That is really the piece that has become the 'Best in Class' for us. Commuters gravitate to three main pieces: The Elite 2.0 for men and women, the Touring jacket, and the new Club Pro for men and women. As both the Club Pro and Touring jackets offer a wide range of use, on and off the bike, they appeal to a broad range of customers and consistently rank in the top-sellers category. Another top seller, for long-distance riders and commuters alike? The Convertible Rain Pants for men and women.

"The ultimate [product] tests are in the field and on the bike": good thing both BicyclingHub.com and Showers Pass are based in Portland, Oregon, the ultimate proving ground for cycling apparel in a wide range of weather conditions.

Founded in 1997, a tiny company was born partially out of frustration as the owners couldn't find the level of performance outerwear they wanted for cycling. Dalton notes, "In my mind specifically, there was great mountaineering gear and alpine gear; for us, there wasn't that level of performance outerwear created for cyclists. And cyclists deal with as much weather and wind as any of those other activities." He vividly recalls a 2004 bicycle trip through Hell's Canyon on the popular Cycle Oregon event where a close brush with hypothermia led to an epiphany that changed the trajectory of his professional career. "I was wearing cycling clothing that wasn't suitable--it didn't protect me. It was wet, windy, and cold. More than wet--it was raining and COLD, and the temperature dropped over the mountain pass. Cycle Oregon set up camp fires and people stood by them not for a half hour, but for HOURS trying to get warm. And then they had to get on their bikes and ride down the pass. That's when I realized the gear that was available for cyclists didn't perform nearly as well as it needed it. And that was when I decided we were going to set the bar."

Three months later, in December 2004, Dalton met the founder of Showers Pass at the Cyclocross Nationals race at Portland International Raceway and a new partnership was forged. Originally a tiny online retailer which sold only to individual consumers, the company saved from bankruptcy, was remodeled as a wholesale business to bring the line directly to dealers, growing from one to seven full-time staff (plus outside help as needed). Relocating to the notoriously rainy climate of Portland, Oregon, in six years Showers Pass has expanded product range, broadened their customer base, and vastly improved their products--and show no signs of slowing down.

What Does the Future Hold?

"I think the lifestyle cycling clothing category is one that is really important," Dalton remarks. "A lot of people want to commute on their bikes and not necessarily look like they're bike commuters when they walk into the office. Pieces like the Portland jacket, Hybrid jacket and zip-off convertible pants make cycling more accessible. We think that category of outerwear encourages and helps to get more people on bikes.

"When I commute by bike to work (as often as I can) I go over the Hawthorne Bridge [into downtown Portland] and a lot of people are wearing everyday clothing. But in wearing those, and getting caught in the weather, they're kind of screwed. I want them to wear regular street clothes that perform like high-performance cycling wear. Some mornings I'll ride my road bike in, with full-on Lycra; other mornings I'll wear just my Portland jacket and my regular clothes. I want to see more of that; folks can walk in the office and they're good to go, minus a whole complete change of clothes."

Field Testing and Feedback

(left): BicyclingHub.com Customer Service Rep and Cycling Clothing Expert Melissa Cate gives the the new Showers Pass Elite Pro Jacket a close inspection at Interbike 2010.

With both BicyclingHub.com and Showers Pass headquartered in the Platinum-Level Bicycle Friendly Community of Portland, Oregon, it's a rare day that goes by we don't see a cyclist wearing one of the Showers Pass products we sell. As the first Internet retailer to sell Showers Pass jackets and rain gear directly to consumers, since 2005 BicyclingHub.com has sold upwards of 1,500 Showers Pass products and can authoritatively speak on behalf of the brand's quality, durability, and loyal fan base. Most importantly, our endorsement comes from the fact our staff rides in and vigorously tests the products that we sell--a standard Showers Pass upholds as well. "For us, [Portland] is the perfect proving ground for our product. It would be a challenge for us if we were….based in Southern California. Lab tests are great, but the ultimate tests are in the field and on the bike, with your messenger bag, crumpling it up, doing things to your gear that you shouldn't be doing, and seeing how it works."

And what does Showers Pass do with all the feedback they receive? "We use it all to help better engineer our clothing," Dalton responds. Showers Pass stands out from our competitors by our attention to every detail; the fact that we're riders and we USE our products; and we listen to our customers. Because that's the ultimate test."

Make certain fall and winter doesn't rain on your parade: order your Showers Pass cycling-specific attire today with BicyclingHub.com and remind your friends, "There's no such thing as bad weather--only bad clothing."