History of early bicycles
The bicycle was introduced in the 19th century in Europe by German Inventor Karl von Drais. He is credited with developing the first bicycle. He introduced it to the people in Paris in 1818. It is supposed to originate from the human-powered vehicle called Draisines. Drais invented a walking machine that would help him get around the royal gardens faster. It was known by many names, including the “velocipede,” “dandy horse,” “hobby-horse,” “draisine” and “running machine. It had no pedals and its frame was a wooden beam. It had two same-size in-line wheels with the front one steerable and mounted in a frame which was straddled. In 1839, Kirkpatrick MacMillan, a Scottish blacksmith, allegedly completed construction of a pedal driven…
Armed Forces Cycling Classic: Rob Laybourn Interview
I talk with Rob Laybourn, founder of the Armed Forces Cycling Classic bike race in Arlington VA, scheduled for May 31-June 1, 2025. We talk about the full weekend of family-friendly cycling events, including the Crystal Cup and Clarendon Cup pro/am races for the top men and women racers, the everyone-welcome Challenge Ride on a new course that flows past the nation’s Capital Building, the legendary Kids races, the amateur races and more, including how Rob has grown the event over 27 years to attract top level corporate sponsorship. Click PLAY to watch the interview, and see more videos at the PEZ Youtube channel here.Register and more info at https://cyclingclassic.orgArlington Sports announces expanded partnership with Amazon for the Armed Forces…
A Bit of GENT-WEVELGEM History
Gent-Wevelgem History: Gent-Wevelgem is a true Classic where anything can happen. This Sunday the sprinters might have it their way, or will a late attack group take the day? Whoever wins, he adds his name to a list of top riders who have been first over the finish-line in Wevelgem.*** You can see the ‘PEZ 2025 Gent-Wevelgem Preview’ HERE. ***Sep Vanmarcke Unveils the secrets of the Kemmelberg | Gent-Wevelgem Insider’s GuideThe first Gent-Wevelgem was on 9th of September, 1934 and Gustave Van Belle was the solo winner after 120 flat kilometres, he won with a lead of 20 seconds. In those days Gent-Wevelgem was organised for amateur riders by the newspaper Gazet van Antwerpen and Wevelgem was selected for the…
Mastering Race Tactics: Simplify the Chaos and Take Control
Spring racing is in full swing across North America, bringing with it the usual pre-race nerves and tactical debates among riders. Many assume amateur racing is pure chaos, where strategy takes a back seat to brute force. But the truth is, smart tactics can make all the differenceespecially when others underestimate their importance. Whether you’re racing solo or on a team, understanding how to read the peloton, conserve energy, and time your moves can turn unpredictable races into opportunities for success. Heres how to simplify the chaos and take control of your next race.Throughout my career, reading races and team leadership became one of my biggest assets as a pro. And so, when I work with individual coaching clients and…
Gear Break: Topeak Stand, Fizik Vento Antares Saddle, BlackHeart Gravel Ti, Kogel Bearings, Zwift Bike Upgrades & Hover Air Drone
Gear Break: Topeak Lineup Stand Max, Fizik Vento Antares R3 saddle, introducing the BlackHeart Gravel Ti, Kogel Bearings unveils the Kolossos ST: Performance without the price tag, tinkerers rejoice: Bike upgrades come to the Zwift Drop Shop and Hover Air drone for capturing your rides!Topeak Lineup Stand Max+According to Topeak:Durable, tubular folding stand for storing and displaying bicycles. A spring-loaded arm stabilizes the rear wheel and adjustable tire roller accepts 20mm road tires up to 3.25″ wide mountain bike tires. Fits most road bikes, mountain bikes, or eBikes.Chuck Pea PEZ sez:If leaning your bike up against a wall isn’t your idea of bike storage (or doesn’t still well with your significant other), the Topeak Lineup Stand Max+ may be just…
Everfun Hydration Backpack Review: Function & Value
Everfun Hydration Backpack – $ 44.99 – $ 54.99Staying hydrated on long rides, hikes, or outdoor adventures is essential, and the Everfun Hydration Backpack offers a convenient solution. More than just a small backpack, this pack features an integrated hydration bladder, allowing you to carry up to 3 liters of waterfar more than standard water bottles. With a durable, water-resistant design, multiple storage compartments, and a comfortable fit, its built for endurance athletes, bikepackers, and adventurers who need reliable hydration on the go. PEZ took the 2-liter version for a spinheres what we found.Per the manufacturer:The hiking bag features high-density nylon fabric and a built-in rain cover – ideal for rainy activities. The reflective strips keep you visible in low-light…
Cycling Broadcasting, Pog’s Legend, New Women’s Rivalries, One Cycling, Lappartient’s Future, Trump Looks to World Cup and Olympics…
In this weeks AIRmail newsletter, The Outer Line takes an in-depth look at trending cycling news: Better ideas for cycling broadcasting, Pog’s legend grows, new women’s rivalries, is One Cycling “imminent?” Lappartient’s future, Trump Looks to World Cup and Olympics…# Catch up on pro cycling and its context within the broader world of sports with AIRmail Analysis, Insight and Reflections from The Outer Line. You can subscribe to AIRmail here, and check out The Outer Lines extensive library of articles on the governance and economics of cycling here. #Key Takeaways:How Current Broadcasting Trends Can Help CyclingPogaars Legend Continues to GrowOne Cycling Seems Anything but ImminentWill Lappartient Stick It Out With the UCI?Trump Looks to the Olympics and World CupCycling on…
PEZ at the Movies: Lachlan Morton Tackles The Great Southern Country
Lachlan Morton is no stranger to pushing boundaries, but his latest challenge took ultra-endurance cycling to a whole new level. In September 2024, the EF Education-EasyPost rider set out to break the Around-Australia cycling record, covering over 14,200 km in less than 40 days. Battling extreme heat, exhaustion, and the relentless Australian outback, Mortons journeycaptured in the feature-length film The Great Southern Countryshowcases his endurance, determination, and unique approach to long-distance riding. Heres a look at how he took on one of the toughest endurance challenges ever attempted.Australia’s Lachlan Morton rides for the UCI World Tour team EF Education First-Easy Post but his career as a cyclist has taken a very different direction from what he might have envisaged when…
Inside Salon du Vélo de Montréal 2025
Montreals Salon du Vlo is back for 2025, bringing together cycling enthusiasts, industry leaders, and the latest gear under one roof. As one of Canadas top bike shows, its a great place to explore the latest cycling technology, discover new trends, and connect with fellow riders. Whether you’re into road, gravel, or commuting, theres something for everyone. Pez paid a visit and here’s what we found…Winters can be long and cold and hard in Canada so it was with considerable pleasure that we looked forward to a momentary escape, heading down the highway to Montreal for the largest bicycle show in Canada. Of course, the trip was not made easy as the region had had two major snowfalls only a…