Ep 61: Bike Brands We Love (And Ones We Don’t) + The UCI Is Coming For Motor Dopers...
Oct 3, 2024
auto_awesome
The hosts dive into their thrilling experiences at the Urban Hill Climb, complete with tumbles and triumphs. They share humorous cycling crash stories while playing a game of 'Love Tolerate Kill' about bike brands. The conversation turns serious as they discuss motor doping controversies and the UCI's whistleblower initiative. Cycling culture is celebrated through funny anecdotes and tales of group versus solo rides. They also highlight a heartfelt fundraiser for AIDS/LifeCycle, aiming to raise $5,000 for HIV and AIDS organizations.
The hosts share their thrilling yet challenging experience at the Urban Hill Climb event, reflecting on the camaraderie and competitive spirit among cyclists.
In a lively segment of 'Love, Tolerate, Kill', the hosts debate cycling brands and equipment, showcasing their diverse preferences and opinions in the cycling community.
The discussion on the UCI's initiative against motor doping emphasizes the urgency of maintaining cycling's integrity and the potential role of whistleblowers.
Deep dives
Experiencing the Urban Hill Climb
The hosts recount their participation in the Urban Hill Climb event held in London, discussing the excitement and challenges they faced. One host humorously recounts a mishap while attempting wheelies on a folding bike, resulting in a painful fall that left him sore even days later. This incident highlights the physical toll of cycling as one ages, drawing a comparison to previous crashes that felt less severe. They reflect on the competitive atmosphere and personal ambitions associated with the event, emphasizing the fun and camaraderie among participants.
A Game of Love, Tolerate, Kill
The podcast features a segment where the hosts engage in the game 'Love, Tolerate, Kill,' discussing various cycling-related items. They evaluate Shimano's group sets, with one host loving Dura-Ace for its premium quality, while another favors 105 for its accessibility. This playful debate extends to materials and brands in cycling, such as carbon wheels versus finishing kits, and various brands like Specialized and Trek. Each round presents personal preferences and critical discussions about the cycling industry's offerings, ultimately showcasing the diversity of opinions among enthusiasts.
Addressing Doping in Cycling
A significant topic discussed is the UCI's new initiative to combat motor doping within cycling. The governing body is offering financial rewards for credible information on mechanical doping practices, a move seen as necessary given past incidents where riders have used hidden motors. They reference the single confirmed case of a rider caught with a motor, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issue to maintain the sport's integrity. The conversation also touches on the implications this may hold for credible whistleblowers and the cycling community at large.
Bikepacking Tips and Gear Preferences
The hosts provide insights into bikepacking essentials, engaging in their variant of 'Love, Tolerate, Kill' focused on gear like bike luggage and GPS devices. They agree on the necessity of bike luggage for effectively carrying supplies, while off-bike clothing is deemed less critical for shorter trips. The discussion also reveals the challenges of navigating with traditional maps versus GPS, highlighting the advantages of modern technology. They explore the balance between practicality and comfort in bikepacking, acknowledging that having the right gear can significantly enhance the experience.
Cycling Cultures Around the World
A lively discourse unfolds around different cycling cultures in the UK, USA, and South Asia, with hosts sharing their varied experiences. The conversation underscores the awareness drivers have towards cyclists in Southeast Asia despite chaotic conditions, presenting it as a more favorable environment for cycling. Comparatively, they discuss their frustrations with UK drivers and road safety issues, prompting a preference for cycling in the US where wide roads offer a different experience. This segment highlights the hosts' passion for cycling while critically examining how location influences their enjoyment and safety on the roads.
If you’d like us to send in a question, story, some good news, things you’d like us to discuss or anything else, email us at wildonespodcast@cademedia.co.uk
