Ep 67: Trouble at Cervelo and Endura? + These SRAM ‘Smart Wheels’ Sound WILD
Nov 14, 2024
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The hosts share their love for cycling, reminiscing about memorable Saturday rides. They dive into the exhilarating world of unicycling, highlighting a student who climbed Everest on one. Discussions shift to endurance sports, comparing extreme running events and cycling strategies. The impact of recent cycling tech advances, especially SRAM’s smart wheels, captures attention. They also navigate the effects of economic downturns on bike sales and changing consumer preferences in apparel, wrapping up with the intriguing role of music in racing.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of Black Friday as an early opportunity for Christmas shopping with significant discounts on cycling products.
Mason Allen's world record for elevation gained on a unicycle exemplifies extraordinary endurance and dedication, inspiring discussions about balance challenges in unicycling.
The conversation explores SRAM's innovative smart wheels technology, which utilizes sensors to enhance cyclist safety by monitoring essential riding metrics.
Deep dives
Black Friday and Holiday Preparation
The discussion highlights the significance of the Black Friday sales event as an opportunity for early Christmas shopping. Discounts of up to 40% on a wide range of products are available, encouraging customers to take advantage of these deals to secure gifts ahead of the holiday season. This timely promotion showcases the potential savings and value for consumers looking to make their holiday purchases while also capitalizing on the economic momentum of the shopping season. Overall, the emphasis is on being proactive in gift shopping to mitigate the rush closer to Christmas.
Extreme Cycling Feats
A remarkable story is shared about Mason Allen, a student who set a new world record for the most elevation gained on a unicycle. He achieved the staggering height of 8,848 meters—equivalent to Everest—by completing 130 repetitions of a hill on his university's campus. This extraordinary challenge took him over 21 hours, showcasing not only his physical endurance but also his dedication to mastering unicycling over several years. The achievement sparks engaging dialogue about the challenges of balancing on a unicycle during both uphill and downhill rides.
Innovative Cycling Events
The concept of a 'backyard ultra' running event, where participants run a designated distance on the hour until only one remains, is explored as a unique and engaging competition format. This mental and physical challenge allows for recovery times between laps, creating a strategic component to the race. The discussion mentions ideas of adapting this format for cycling, considering the different dynamics and challenges involved. Ultimately, the focus is on how such innovative events can offer a fresh perspective on traditional racing formats.
Technological Advancements in Cycling Gear
A potential innovation in cycling technology involves SRAM's development of real-time smart wheels, highlights the integration of sensors to monitor various metrics such as tire pressure and road conditions. This advancement promises to enhance cyclists' awareness and safety by providing valuable data during rides. The conversation raises questions about the practicality of collecting such data for everyday cyclists, as some argue that it could be overwhelming. Nevertheless, there is optimism that insights gained from this technology could eventually benefit all cyclists by improving ride comfort and efficiency.
Industry Challenges and Trends
The podcast addresses recent struggles within the cycling industry, discussing significant financial losses reported by well-known brands like Endura and the closure of a PON factory. This downturn illustrates the impact of fluctuating consumer demand and the strain on businesses following the pandemic boom. Despite the gloomy news, the hosts discuss potential recovery strategies and emphasize the resilience of established companies. Overall, there's a sense of hope that the industry can adapt to the evolving market and continue to engage new cycling enthusiasts.
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