I would like to tell myself that the lactic acid burn in my legs post-workout is an affirmation of dedication and pushing my physical limits. I would like to believe it's a gratifying ache, symbolizing hard work and progress—a temporary pain that serves as a badge of honor. I might almost believe that embracing the burn is embracing growth, a tangible reminder that improvement arises from pushing boundaries and facing physical challenges head-on. However, this week it’s merely the result of tackling a Zwift race a bit out of my league. But how else will I make it onto an Alpecin squad if I don’t push myself. Anyone else signing up for Zwift Academy?

wheels we’re following

kit we’re eyeing

where we’re riding

café-stop reading

We sometimes fill our leisure reading with articles about cycling in far-off exotic locals or cyclists tackling grand adventures or some unique anecdote from cyclings long history. Other times we find ourselves reading more educational articles. We still have quite a bit to learn about our own bikes and bike culture. Also, we find ourselves needing to be reminded about things we’ve already learned and ought to remember. This past week we noticed an article by Silca reminding us that setting up our bike for some cold-weather days on our bike trainer does in fact require some forethought and intentionality. “Bike Prep for the Winter Trainer Season” is just the article we needed to read on a cold and wet evening.

off the back of the newsletter

The UCI has release the 2024 Road and Para-cycling World Championship race routes in Zurich. Rigoberto Urán will retire after the 2024 Olympics. Lucinda Brand will be back to racing cyclocross next week. It’s getting close to winter, so a development in mudguard technology is big news. Watch this short film by Canyon on what it’s like to race a solo 210km MTB race. This sweatshirt says “gravel”.

If you are enjoying the OTB Cycling Digest

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