Velonut

Mind Your Mental Health

2022-03-20T00:00:00+00:00

Walking away from things might be necessary for your mental health. Just know that you’re not alone.

VeloNut Journal #3: ERUPTION!

2021-02-10T00:00:00+00:00

Another quick update to the Marin Nicasio with new ESI Grips RCT bar tape. Plus, the debut of the Surly Midnight Special build appropriately titled ERUPTION!

VeloNut Journal #2: Frankenbike?

2021-02-08T00:00:00+00:00

Jeff provides a quick overview on other changes made to his Marin Nicasio. Also, Jeff reveals updates he made to the new Surly Midnight Special frameset,

VeloNut Journal #1: What's In The Box?

2021-02-03T00:00:00+00:00

Quick update on where things are at with VeloNut. Plus, Jeff gets a surprise box on his doorstep. What could it be? Find out about his next big bike project!

VeloNut Podcast #4: New Year’s Tips & Tricks

2021-01-15T00:00:00+00:00

Jeff and James bring in the New Year by sharing some tips & tricks to help improve your bike training and riding experience.

VeloNut Podcast #3: Cardio, Breathing, and Meditation

2020-11-28T00:00:00+00:00

Jeff and James dive into more heavy topics: Cardio and why need it. Breathing and the impact it has on your fitness. How mediation can improve your fitness.

Review: Ritchey WCS Beacon Handlebars

2020-11-07T00:00:00+00:00

Another look at the Ritchey Beacon handlebar, examining the differences between the WCS version with the Comp version. Is one really better than the other?

VeloNut Podcast #2: The Fundamentals of Strength Training

2020-11-07T00:00:00+00:00

Jeff and James dive into strength training, what it is (and isn’t), the basic fundamentals, as well as home gyms vs a gym membership, and more.

VeloNut Podcast #1: Disruption In The Pedal Industry

2020-09-28T00:00:00+00:00

In the premiere episode, Jeff talks with James Wilson of Pedaling Innovations about how his Catalyst pedals are disrupting the pedal industry.

Lube Review: Muc-Off C3 vs Dumonde Tech Original

2020-09-08T00:00:00+00:00

A review of the lubes I’ve been using lately. Muc-Off and Dumonde Tech go mano a mano! Two lubes enter, one lube leaves! Which lube will prevail?

Why Do Wider Tires Brake Faster?

2020-09-07T00:00:00+00:00

GCN does a test on how tire width effects braking, giving us yet another reason to like wider tires. But will road cyclists overcome bias and agree?

Long Term Review: Wahoo ELEMNT Roam

2020-09-05T00:00:00+00:00

After a year of using the Roam, it’s time to report on the good and the bad. Even a defective unit didn’t stop the Roam from being a good bike computer.

Switching From Clipless to Flat Pedals for Gravel Riding

2020-08-31T00:00:00+00:00

I'm committing a sacrilegious act in road cycling: I'm switching to flat pedals! Read on about the switch as well as a few reviews of some flat pedals.

Review: Ritchey Beacon Gravel Handlebars

2020-08-29T00:00:00+00:00

Ritchey releases a crazy “super-wide” bar that looks so intriguing I just had to get one to try out. Read my review of the Beacon handlebars!

Stages Gen 3 Single-Sided Power L Meter Review

2020-08-20T00:00:00+00:00

Stages is changing things for the better! This crank-based power meter used to be expensive. Now it’s darn close to being considered entry-level.

The Pros and Cons of Gravel Specific Handlebars

2020-08-20T00:00:00+00:00

Gravel handlebars: some like them, some don’t. What makes them so good...or so bad? We dig into this class of handlebar and what to watch out for.

Release: Ritchey Beacon Super-Wide Ergonomic Handlebars

2020-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

Ritchey releases a new handlebar that adds plenty of flare and ergonomics...but will the lack of wider versions turn some riders off?

What the Garmin Hack Could Mean for Sports

2020-08-05T00:00:00+00:00

Reports confirm that Garmin paid up after a ransomware attack, an action that will likely be felt by others in the industry.

Release: Shimano RX8 Gravel Racing Shoes in Cactus Berry

2020-07-30T00:00:00+00:00

If you’re hoping for gravel shoes that are a bit more colorful, you’re in luck! Shimano adds a new green/purple color to their line of RX8 shoes.

Review: Handske Lightweight Bicycle Gloves

2020-07-25T00:00:00+00:00

Hanske releases a 2020 update to their lightweight bike gloves. Are these the best gloves for road and gravel riding? Find out!

Garmin Connect Down For the Count

2020-07-23T00:00:00+00:00

In what is likely a huge blow to Garmin, Connect and all related services have been down for hours, rendering many Garmin devices effectively useless.

700C vs 650B Wheels: Which One is Faster?

2020-07-19T00:00:00+00:00

650B wheels are gaining more popularity, especially on the gravel scene. But are they faster than a 700C wheel? What are the advantages of each wheel size?

Release: Continental Grand Prix 5000 Special Edition

2020-07-17T00:00:00+00:00

The Special Edition GP 5000 look cool...but are they worth it? Pricey tires may have cream sidewalls but lack anything new.

Shimano Announces the SD-501A SPD Sandal

2020-07-09T00:00:00+00:00

Shimano releases a SPD sandal because...well...why not? Cult following or not, it’s an unusual product any way you slice it.

Release: Wolf Tooth Supple Bar Tape

2020-06-25T00:00:00+00:00

Wolf Tooth Components announces the release of their Supple Bar Tape, a thick, wide, and cushy silicone-based bar tape made for heavy riding like gravel.

Ted King’s 310 Mile DIY Dirty Kanza

2020-06-24T00:00:00+00:00

A 310 mile romp across Vermont completed in less than 24 hours. That’s just nuts...but inspiring nonetheless!

Bike Bags: A Personal Review

2020-06-18T00:00:00+00:00

A review of the various bike bags I’ve used over the past few years: saddle bag, top tube bag, storage bottle, feedbag, backpack, waist pack, and more.

Gravel Riding on the Trinity Levee

2020-06-10T00:00:00+00:00

Jeff takes a gravel ride on the Trinity Levee trail system near downtown Dallas, Texas! Plus, we take a brief look at the WTB Ridder tire.

Bike Lights: A Personal Review

2020-06-02T00:00:00+00:00

Just in the past two years, I’ve owned a few different front and rear bike lights. Here’s some mini-reviews of the lights I’ve used.

The Birth of VeloNut and Big Changes with Strava

2020-06-01T00:00:00+00:00

In this episode, I talk about how VeloNut was born and how it got its name. Later, I talk about the latest shake up with Strava and how I feel about it.

WTB Riddler Tire Review

2020-05-22T00:00:00+00:00

Puntured one of my gravel tires, so I got a set of Riddlers to replace them, the most aggressive tire I've ridden on. But how well do they perform?

Release: Dynaplug Carbon Racer TLT Repair Kit

2020-05-21T00:00:00+00:00

Dynaplug releases a new carbon tubeless tire repair kit for the weight weenies looking to shed even more ounces out of their saddle bag.

Bikes of Yesterday: Schwinn Network 7 Men's Hybrid

2020-05-20T00:00:00+00:00

A Schwinn bike purchased off Amazon would lead the way to beating Crohn’s disease and me becoming a more dedicated cyclist.

Big Strava Changes with Focus on Subscriptions

2020-05-19T00:00:00+00:00

Huge changes announced for Strava subscriptions with more limitations on free accounts than ever before. Naturally, the cycling community is going nuts.

Shimano Announces New PD-ME700 SPD Trail Pedal

2020-05-16T00:00:00+00:00

Shimano is set to release a new and improved double-sided SPD trail pedal this August, effectively replacing the older PD-M530 pedal.

What’s In My Saddle Bag and Storage Bottle

2020-05-16T00:00:00+00:00

Saddle bag and storage bottle contents that might give you tips on how to better update/upgrade your own saddle bag. Lots to go over so strap yourself in!

The Effect Gravel Handlebars Have On A Bike

2020-05-13T00:00:00+00:00

With the surge in popularity of gravel handlebars, understanding how they effect your riding can go a long way to knowing which handlebar is right for you.

Updated RSS Feed and New Follow Options

2020-05-10T00:00:00+00:00

If you're following the site via RSS, it's time to update the URL you're using! If not, it's time to start following this site!

Zen and the Art of Bicycle Maintenance

2020-05-01T00:00:00+00:00

An Inquiry Into Soulful Endeavors. What does bicycle maintenance and repair have to do with philosophy? How can it get you more in touch with your bike?

Marin Nicasio Road Bike Review

2020-04-30T00:00:00+00:00

The Marin Nicasio is a solid entry-level budget road bike that’s extremely versatile. This bike is just dying to be ridden on road, gravel, and more!

Coping with COVID-19 as a Cyclist

2020-04-13T00:00:00+00:00

The Coronavirus has a lot of people on edge. Here’s some thoughts on how us cyclists can cope with it.

New Site Design and the Evolution of VeloNut!

2020-04-06T00:00:00+00:00

With the launch of a new site design, it's time to shift gears and lay a path for the further evolution of VeloNut.

My Bike Is My Dōtanuki

2020-03-30T00:00:00+00:00

Taken from Lone Wolf & Cub, the story of Ogami's battle with wolves provides an excellent metaphor for our current struggles as cyclists.

Review: Rene Herse Barlow Pass TC Tire

2020-03-30T00:00:00+00:00

A happy accident and what will likely be the best road tires I’ve ever owned. Oh, and they’re pretty good for light gravel and dirt too.

Effects of Coronavirus Felt By My Local Bike Shop

2020-03-26T00:00:00+00:00

I made a very irresponsible trip to my local bike shop, a trip that I regret but needed at the same time.

Review: Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite TLR Road Tire

2020-03-22T00:00:00+00:00

After riding a few months on this tire, time to report on the good, the bad, and the downright ugly.

1 Cycling Book You Should Read

2020-03-18T00:00:00+00:00

I'm always amused when I see posted entitle '11 cycling books you should read' when only 1 book applies.

Riding on a Shimano GRX 2x with an 11-40T Cassette

2020-03-18T00:00:00+00:00

First big gravel ride of the year as well as the first big test of the 11-40T cassette on a GRX 2x groupset.

Boulder Denim 3.0: “He's Jersey! He skis in his jeans!”

2020-03-10T00:00:00+00:00

I get it...they’re well designed jeans for sportswear. Dusty Dinkleman would likely approve.

Farr Wide-R Handlebar: It’s Not About You!

2020-03-08T00:00:00+00:00

Yet another super wide handlebar! But it's not the bar that's entertaining...it's the comments! :P

My Marin Nicasio Whatever v2.0

2020-02-26T00:00:00+00:00

Meet the new boss...same as the old boss! Thanks goes out to Marin for honoring the warranty on their frames!

Gravel Bikes Are The SUVs of Cycling?

2020-02-18T00:00:00+00:00

Kind of a funny article on Forbes. But what SUVs can we compare steel frame bikes with?

PowerPod V3 Power Meter Review

2020-02-18T00:00:00+00:00

Is a PowerPod V3 a good choice for an entry-level power meter? As with many things, the answer is: it depends.

The Current State of Gravel Handlebars 2020

2020-02-08T00:00:00+00:00

Lots of new handlebars in just the past 6 months. An early 2020 look at the gravel handlebars that I find interesting.

Release: Bontrager GR2 Gravel Bike Shoe

2020-02-07T00:00:00+00:00

Bontrager releases the GR2 gravel bike shoe, which looks to be a laces only version of their Foray MTB shoe.

Groundhog Day Revisited

2020-02-05T00:00:00+00:00

Bill Murray revisits Groundhog Day on an e-bike. How about a shot-by-shot remake?

VeloNews: Stages Launches Gravel GRX Power Meters

2020-02-05T00:00:00+00:00

Finally a crank-based power meter worth buying for the GRX crankset!

DC Rainmaker: Wahoo/ANGi Helmet Sensor Integration

2020-02-03T00:00:00+00:00

Great to see Wahoo adding support for helmet crash sensors. However, it still looks like a pain in the ass to use.

Salsa Cowchipper: Now Available In Freakin’ Wide

2020-02-03T00:00:00+00:00

Salsa updates their most popular handlebar with more widths. Gee...can we get a ludicrous width too?

VeloNews: Evil Bikes Chamois Hagar Review

2020-02-03T00:00:00+00:00

Evil Bikes puts out what is perhaps the most unique take on a gravel bike. Plus, ya gotta dig the name!

Bicycling: Distracted Driver Killed Two Florida Cyclists

2020-01-23T00:00:00+00:00

Horrible story with an equally horrible outcome. Strong lesson to learn here.

Russ Mantle: The 82-Year Old One Million Mile Man

2020-01-18T00:00:00+00:00

Russ Mantle rode an average of 14,700 miles a year for 68 years on his bike. Which begs the question: What the hell have you done lately? :P

Chainlift: Solution To A Problem That Doesn't Exist?

2020-01-05T00:00:00+00:00

Noticed this in an advertisement on Facebook. Looks like a case of over-engineering to me...but is it?

Release: Curve Cycling Walmer Handlebar

2019-12-29T00:00:00+00:00

One of the craziest gravel handlebars I’ve ever seen. Super stupid wide for maximum stability.

The Search for the Ultimate Gravel Riding Gloves

2019-12-29T00:00:00+00:00

A review of a few pairs of cycling gloves for both road and gravel riding. Will I find the ultimate pair?

BikeRumor! 2020 Predictions

2019-12-28T00:00:00+00:00

I found some of BikeRumor’s 2020 predictions pretty interesting. A lot of them had me nodding my head say, ‘Yep, I called that one too!’

DC Rainmaker: Fisher-Price Smart Cycle Trainer

2019-12-23T00:00:00+00:00

The fact that DC Rainmaker conducts such a thorough in-depth review of this toy trainer for kids just cracks me up!

Consistent Calibration on a Wahoo KICKR Snap

2019-12-12T00:00:00+00:00

The calibration process for the KICKR Snap is confusing...but it can be done consistently once you understand the requirements and steps.

Review: Saris M2 vs Wahoo KICKR Snap

2019-12-12T00:00:00+00:00

A failed review of the Saris M2 smart trainer and a re-review of the Wahoo KICKR Snap.

Red Bull: 5 Reasons to Support Your Local Bike Shops

2019-12-08T00:00:00+00:00

When you really need it, it's there. When it's not, you will eventually feel it.

Release: SILCA Titanium Straw Set

2019-12-06T00:00:00+00:00

Do you drink a lot with a straw? Do your reusable straws get grungy? Maybe you need a titanium straw set!

Book Review: Gravel! by Selene Yeager

2019-11-30T00:00:00+00:00

A quick and dirty review of Selene Yeager’s book ‘Gravel: The Ultimate Guide to the Gear, Training, and Grit You Need to Crush It’

A Newbie’s Guide to Strength Training for Cycling

2019-11-28T00:00:00+00:00

My journey on seeking the best strength training workout routine for cycling. A brief overview of how I arrived at my training plan.

Training with a Budget Bike Trainer

2019-11-23T00:00:00+00:00

Can you get by with just a basic bike trainer? And how accurate do your power readings really need to be?

Garmin Connect vs Wahoo ELEMNT Companion

2019-11-22T00:00:00+00:00

On the fence about a Garmin Edge vs a Wahoo ELEMNT? Here’s some differences in the software that might change your mind.

Bikes of Yesterday: Team Murray X24

2019-11-20T00:00:00+00:00

I don’t remember my first bike, but I do remember the one I rode the most as a kid: a big blue and chrome behemoth!

A Newbie’s Introduction to TrainerRoad

2019-11-18T00:00:00+00:00

What getting on TrainerRoad, off, and then back on again has taught me about training.

Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM vs BOLT

2019-11-17T00:00:00+00:00

Which one is better? Having used both, here’s my opinion on which one I prefer and why.

BikeRumor Review: Muc-Off Pressure Washer

2019-11-13T00:00:00+00:00

You don’t need it but, hey, it’s better than just a hose.

BikeRadar: Hope Sh1t Shifter Bike Cleaner Review

2019-11-12T00:00:00+00:00

Love the name but...why isn’t this Sh1t sold in the United States?

Cycling Magazine: My One Problem with Gravel Riding

2019-11-12T00:00:00+00:00

Are cyclists giving up on road riding? Is the big move to gravel a sign of things changing for the worse?

Bicycling: Local Shops Need To Lose The Attitude

2019-11-11T00:00:00+00:00

I’m with Bicycling Magazine on this one. Bike shops need to be less of a stereotype if they want to stick around.

BikeRadar: Don’t Let Bicycles Rule Your Life

2019-11-11T00:00:00+00:00

Because of the strong connection with our bikes, it’s so easy to become easily obsessed with them.

Bicycling: It’s on You to Stop Getting Hit by Drivers

2019-11-07T00:00:00+00:00

How conspicuous do you need to be to ride a bicycle on city streets? Seriously!

Gravel Cyclist: Shimano GRX 2x with 11-40T Cassette

2019-11-07T00:00:00+00:00

Can you run a 11-40T cassette on a Shimano GRX 2x drivetrain? Yes...yes you can!

Mind Your Headset and Stem!

2019-11-06T00:00:00+00:00

A cautionary tale in cockpit upgrades. A few gotchas with headset and stem upgrades prove that the right components make all the difference.

Solution to GRX Lever Compatibility With Post/IS Brakes

2019-11-03T00:00:00+00:00

A recent commenter made a suggestion on how to get Shimano GRX levers to work with post/IS mounted hydraulic disc brake calipers.

BikeRumor.com: Muc-Off cuts wasted packaging

2019-10-31T00:00:00+00:00

Muc-Off makes a move to be even more environmentally friendly with Nano Cleaner refill station. Call me impressed!

Camelbak Podium Bottle Tested...and Failed!

2019-10-31T00:00:00+00:00

BIKE Magazine thinks the new Camelbak Podium bottles are the bee’s knees. I tend to disagree and think there are better options.

Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike...Or Is It a Schwinn IC4?

2019-10-30T00:00:00+00:00

The new Bowflex C6 is less than half the price of a Peloton. But is it the right choice for you?

Gravel Upgrade to My Marin Nicasio Whatever

2019-10-29T00:00:00+00:00

During the past few weeks, I took the time to completely strip down my bike and rebuild it. The whole drivetrain and other components were replaced for a more modern gravel-specific ride.

2019 Roadrunner Rocks: Gravel Riding Texas Style

2019-10-28T00:00:00+00:00

Learn about my adventure at the 2019 Roadrunner Rocks gravel ride organized by The Spinistry and held at 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery.

Wahoo ELEMNT Kickr Snap Review Fail

2019-10-17T00:00:00+00:00

Calibration and power accuracy issues left me wanting more out of the KICKR Snap. But it does get better.

Problem: Flat Mount Brake Calipers On IS Mount Frame

2019-10-16T00:00:00+00:00

It's unlikely you'll be able to get a flat mount brake caliper to work with an IS mount. As such, be prepared to stick with mechanical disc brakes.

Great Big Story: Riding 170 mph...On a Bicycle

2019-09-24T00:00:00+00:00

170 mph on a bicycle? Is this woman nuts? Nope! Denise Mueller-Korenek shattered the world record for the fastest bicycle ride of all time!

The Verge: Music Publishers Sue Peloton

2019-09-24T00:00:00+00:00

Reading this doesn’t make me want to buy a Peloton. I’m not a fan of big companies outright stealing music...even if I'm not a fan of the artists.

VeloNews: Andrew Bernstein On Surviving a Hit-and-Run

2019-09-21T00:00:00+00:00

In an interview with the VeloNews Podcast, Andrew Bernstein talks about his experience in being involved in a hit-and-run incident.

Cyclist Deaths On The Rise In the U.S.

2019-09-07T00:00:00+00:00

According to Vice News, bicycle-related deaths are up 25% across the U.S. since 2010. This is causing many people, including myself, to consider other places to ride.

Keep Your Cycling Training Simple

2019-08-20T00:00:00+00:00

The best lesson you can learn as a recreational cyclist is to keep things simple. This especially applies to structured exercise and training.

Multiple Wheelsets and Tires on a Gravel/Road Bike

2019-08-08T00:00:00+00:00

If all you have is one bike, having multiple wheelsets gives you a wealth of flexibility. An evolution of the wheelsets I have and why I chose them.

Whenever I see a 'YIELD TO PEDS' sign...

2019-08-07T00:00:00+00:00

Just a silly post about what I think about whenever I see a 'YIELD TO PEDS' sign.

Wahoo Elemnt Roam vs Garmin Edge 830, Part Deux

2019-08-02T00:00:00+00:00

In revisiting my case of Garmin vs Wahoo, I changed my mind and switched back to Wahoo. Read on to learn why!

Harlequin Diamond Handlebar Tape Pattern

2019-07-17T00:00:00+00:00

Wanna pimp your bike a little? Try adding a Harlequin two-color contrast pattern to your handlebar!

Specialized Pathfinder Pro 2Bliss Ready Tire Review

2019-07-08T00:00:00+00:00

Is there a 700c gravel tire that works well for both asphalt and gravel? That's what I aimed to find out when I purchased the Specialized Pathfinder Pro tires!

CyclingTips Coefficient Wave Handlebar Review

2019-06-18T00:00:00+00:00

CyclingTips posts a review of the Coefficient Wave just days before the VeloNut review. Read up on what they have to say about the Wave!

Coefficient Wave Handlebar Review

2019-06-17T00:00:00+00:00

A full review of the Coefficient Wave handlebar from the perspective of an amateur road and gravel rider

King Iris Stainless Steel Bottle Cage Review

2019-06-12T00:00:00+00:00

Hitting a bump and losing bottles from your bottle cage sucks. Bottle cages from King Cage can help!

Wahoo’s Biggest Competitor...

2019-06-11T00:00:00+00:00

DC Rainmaker makes some fair points about Garmin. However, I think there's an angle to his argument that is missing.

Bikes of Yesterday: 1963 Schwinn Fleet Cruiser Bike

2019-06-07T00:00:00+00:00

Taking a trip down memory lane, here's one of the earliest bikes I remember riding as a kid: my grandparent's 1963 Schwinn Fleet cruiser bike!

Bicycling: The Day You Sell Your Bike...

2019-06-04T00:00:00+00:00

Saw this article on Bicycling.com today. Honestly, I don’t think I could sell my current bike. Too much of my soul in it already.

The Issue Is: Representation & Inclusivity

2019-06-04T00:00:00+00:00

Super powerful message from Justin Williams. I think a lot about inclusivity in cycling but he just brought that message to a whole new level.

Why I Love Gravel Riding

2019-06-02T00:00:00+00:00

Interested in gravel riding? Learn what a gravel bike is and why I love gravel riding so much.

Wahoo Elemnt Roam vs Garmin Edge 830

2019-05-24T00:00:00+00:00

I upgraded my Wahoo Elemnt Bolt to a Garmin Edge 830. But should I have held out for a Wahoo Elemnt Roam?

The Current State of Ergonomic Gravel Handlebars

2019-05-18T00:00:00+00:00

For an endurance/gravel cyclist, comfortable handlebars is paramount. Here’s my journey in search of ergonomic gravel road bike handlebars.

Phil Gaimon’s New Rules of Cycling

2019-05-09T00:00:00+00:00

It’s nice to see someone who is a professional go out of their way to express to non-professionals that it’s ok to not bike like a pro.

Shimano announces the Shimano GRX gravel groupset

2019-05-08T00:00:00+00:00

Shimano’s new GRX groupset is a first for the industry: a gravel-specific groupset. Lots to consider but the shifters are what caught my attention.

My Bike: A Marin Nicasio Whatever

2019-05-07T00:00:00+00:00

A breakdown of my bike; an adventure, commuting, endurance, gravel, whatever road bike.

6 Tips When Buying Your First Road Bike and Gear

2019-05-05T00:00:00+00:00

Thinking about buying a bike? Here are some tips for those who are just starting out, aren’t looking to become competitive cyclists, but don’t know what to look for.

Marin Announces New Nicasio + Gravel Bike

2019-04-29T00:00:00+00:00

Marin read my mind when it came to adding WTB Horizon tires to the Nicasio. Can’t say I like the color though.

Life Is A Series Of Bikes

2019-04-28T00:00:00+00:00

For a cyclist, life is a series of bikes. For me, one experience cemented this idea. Out of this experience, the VeloNut blog was born!