I think we all knew there would be a confession at one point or another. I think we all knew and still know, that doping, or use of performance enhancing drugs/steroids, has been a big part of SPORTS, since the dawn of time. Not just in cycling, but in every sport imaginable. But never have we had such a dominating figure such as Lance Armstrong, in any sport. You see, cycling, though it can be a team effort at times, is a very singular sport. And when you have a guy from a country that has had tiny bits of success on a world level, beat the odds and come back from a life threatening disease, only to dominate in huge proportions for seven consecutive years, in the sports biggest event… you can imagine that nearly everyone around, cyclist or not, will hear the story. So, yeah, it’s a pretty big deal. It’s also a pretty big deal that after stripping ones titles, there really isn’t anyone clean in any direction, to award them to. We’ll now just have a seven year gap that led to a string of confessions, payoffs and sad interviews.

I’m interested to see how this brilliant PR event unfolds on Thursday. I personally don’t think that Oprah, woke up one day and said… I need to get to the bottom of this. I’m guessing Armstong’s people drummed it up as a way to make it feel like they truly are sorry. I wonder if the questions will be scripted or if Oprah will get in there and throw some curve balls. We’ll see if Lance is human. Maybe he buckles or this made for TV drama/interview, Lance is paid to brake down and cry in Oprah’s lap.

Either way, it’s a shame. It’s a shame that so much time, money and effort gets put into projects, people’s lives and the trust of the world. It puts into question the everyday life we live. Are we surrounded by cheaters? If so, can I, as an individual stay strong enough to be honest and accountable for myself, and rise above? It’s tough. Sometimes the line is thin and easy to cross. Sometimes the financial payout is worth more than the integrity of self. I only hope that for the future, I can have a open mind and level head that keeps me on the right path. I’m about 99% sure I’ll never have the chance to make millions racing bikes and about 99.9% sure I’ll never have the chance to make millions racing bikes doped up and on the juice. But there are plenty of other aspects in all of our lives where we have the opportunity to stoop low in hopes of the highest high. If so, just remember the simple phrase our good friend Mr. Issac Newton, taught us “what goes up must come down.”

“I’m very impressed with the upgrades on the Ghost HD, and the new interface and 2″ screen is awesome. I can’t wait to dive into this thing and make some POV magic”

Shape, size and weight, it’s no different than the previous model, the Drift HD, which, I don’t really mind. It’s extremely light weight already and I love the sleek size and design as I think it has more mounting options and that are and look, way more streamline than any other camera on the market.

Out of the accessorie filled box, the Drift cameras have always come packed full of great filming and image capturing options with a clean interface to back it up. The new Ghost HD, took it a few giant leaps forward with an all new interface that’s even easier to use. Plus, it’s packed behind a 2″ LCD Screen that’s protected by Gorilla Glass. Not only is this great for setting up the camera and scrolling through the menu options, but it’s even more helpful when setting up the shot or instantly viewing the footage you just captured.

The menu interface is intelligently designed with big icons to navigate through. The arrow buttons located on the top of the camera allow you to scroll through the options while the Play/Record button selects the options and the Menu button, takes you back one step or back to the preview screen to set up the next shot.

The camera’s menu options allow you to select your filming mode (25 / 30 / 50 / 60 / 120 fps in WVGA or 25 / 30fps in 1080p) Photo mode (11 megapixel with Photoburst Mode), Lens angle 170° Fully Rotatable Wide Angle Lens (130° at 60fps), plus the Ghost HD comes with a Digital Zoom, x10 (in 1080p, 720p/30/60fps & WVGA mode). You can record your footage and save your photos on microSD Memory card with a capacity up to 32GB.

Also new for the Ghost HD: Out of the box waterproof housing, up to 9′ deep. The previous Drift cameras requited a secondary case that would allow it to be fully submerged.

All of the features mentioned above are amazing, and set this camera above the competition in more ways than one, but the following upgrades are the icing on the cake.

The Drift Active StatusTM Two-Way Remote with LED Lights is worth it’s weight in gold. Drift Innovations previous cameras all came with a remote that worked great. Activating your camera from a distance or even on top of your helmet, from a button on your wrist was excellent. But there always seemed to be a time or two when you weren’t quite sure if the camera was recording or not. You never really had visual proof and even though the “begin recording” and “end recording” chimes were loud, they might not be heard if you had a beanie or helmet on. So, Drift solved that problem and added additional and very convenient features to ensure the user knew exactly what the camera was doing.

The LED light system on the new remote, corresponds with the light shown on the Ghost camera. The light on the camera as well as the remote, changes color depending on what camera setting you’re in. For example: Green. Green means video mode. As you can see from the photo above, both the camera and the remote are in sync, displaying, green, camera mode. The other colors correspond with additional camera settings such as, Photo Mode, which would display as Yellow. Time Lapse mode displays with a purple light and Photo Burst mode displays a blue light. In each mode, when you’re recording or taking photos, the light turns to red. Pretty easy to figure out and the new interface behind the 2″ Gorilla Glass screen makes the process of switching to different modes, super easy.

But lets just say, you’re not in the position to access the camera for some reason and you’re taking a time lapse series and then would like to take some video. Drift Innovations thought of that as well. From the remote, you can not only start and stop the sequence of shots or video, but you can also switch between camera modes with the touch of a button. No need to pull off the gloves, take off the helmet and manually adjust to a new setting. It’s brilliant!

The remote functions of the Drift Ghost HD, came in handy when I was filming the following video. I was alone and had to set each shot up, get into position then rip by. In the static shots, I could use the remote and begin filming exactly when I needed to so I wasn’t wasting time and precious memory card space. Have a look for yourself. I think it turned out pretty nice. Oh, and be sure to watch it in 1080p.

Another fantastic option for the new Drift Ghost HD, is the Drift FlashbackTM Video Tag/Loop. This function will come in handy in so many ways. I know I’ll use it skiing nearly every time I ride this season. You see, how it works, is you set the camera up to record in loops then when you pull off that sick trick or stomp the perfect line, you can “tag” that section of video and the Ghost HD will save (depending on the recording time duration you set up) the last 30 sec. of action, then keep on recording. This is a great function for those times when you’re looking to capture the essential moment, that may take a while to get or be in a series of other memorable clips and the last thing you need to worry about is stopping to hit record on your camera, or, just letting it record for long durations which would then take up valuable space on your memory card. Just hit record, stomp the perfect line, “tag” it and keep rolling.

And Finally, one of the most anticipated aspects of the new Drift Ghost HD, is the Drift DataLinkTM Wi-Fi Enabled & Drift App. Coming soon to the app store, you’ll be able to fully control your Ghost HD, from your smart phone. Set up the shot, preview the action, change the camera settings and even download the video to your phone. Allowing this will change the way the user interfaces with the camera and the speed in which content is live to the world. You could be the first to drop sick line, ride a newly built trail, or send your your buddies stuck on the lift a video of the pow the’re missing out on because they slept in. You could host your own video site using your Ghost HD and smartphone. How cool is that.

In addition to these amazing features, the Drift Ghost HD comes with a bullett proof and optically Enhanced 7 Element Lens Design, for the clearest and best picture available and it’s all protected by a replaceable lens cap.

In the box Drift sends the Ghost HD packing with all the essential goodies you’ll need to get started. You’ll get:
Drift HD Ghost Professional Action Camera, Two Way Remote Control, Rear Connector Hatch, Goggle Mount, Curved and Flat Surface Mounts, Universal Clip, Velcro Strap, 1700 mAH Rechargeable Battery, USB Cable, 3.5 mm Microphone Extension Cable, Drift Bug Sticker, Drift Logo Sticker, Accessory Travel Case and Quick Guide. It’s sort of like that kid in scout camp who’s mom packed his bag with candy bars, cookies, soda.… only this package is way more useful.

Check out the new Drift Ghost HD camera here. Score a deal by using the following promo Codes: “kday” is worth $30 off HD or HD720
Or: “racing” is worth $100 in Free Accessories when you buy the Drift HD Ghost.

Here’s another quick clip, using the new Drift Ghost HD

Now “Get out there” and enjoy.

Since that first ride, I’ve used a number Exposures lights and am always impressed with how dependable, durable and easy to use they are. My favorite combo is the Diablo mounted on my helmet with the MaxXd mounted on the bars. It’s pretty much lumen overkill, and blinding to those oncoming riders and hikers on the trail, but well worth it.

For 2013, Exposure launched a number of new innovative lights with smart technology that raises the bar and continues to lead & light the way. The perfect Go-To light, The Diablo, got a small and extremely bright upgrade and it’s all kept in the same, sleek package. From 900 lumens to 1,100 lumens, the Diablo MK4 is simply the best light, wrapped in the best package.

From the moment we hit the trail head, everyone was talking about the little light on my helmet that was making their, bulky, 800–1,000 lumen lights look dim and outdated. It quickly proved its worth and shined well above the rest.

During the 25 Hours of Frog Hollow mountain bike race, in Southern Utah, a few athletes from the Kuhl Rockymountain Cycling team, ran laps with lights from Exposure. One of the pro riders, Chris Holley, was heard saying

“There seems to be a big difference in the 1,100 lumens from the Diablo, compared to my other set of lights. That Diablo is so much brighter and the beam is much wider.”

Have you ever been night riding before and always wondered what’s beyond the trail? What’s learking in the bushes and trees? Well, if you’re using the Diablo MK4, you’ll have no doubt that, that sound you heard, was in fact a sasquach. And, there’s no need to worry, because the 1,100 lumens will probably spook it off before it even thinks to come after you.

Ryan Blaney, another Kuhl Rockymountain athlete that participated in the 25 Hours of Frog Hollow had this to say about the Diablo MK4:

“Pound for pound the best light on the market. I recently confirmed this at the annual 25 hrs of frog hollow in southern Utah. The course had tight high speed single track that was tough to track properly in the light let alone the dark. having the diablo mounted on my helmet was the ultimate advantage in finding these turns in the dark. It was practically weightless and the on the fly adjustment is the icing on the cake. The size and brightness of this light make it unbeatable. Many of the competitors make 1k lumen lights, but it seems 1k lumens is a relative rating because they just aren’t as bright. The others also come with baggage like batteries and cords, which often prove to be an issue. There is nothing the same size that is even in its league.”

The all new Diablo MK4 features, as I mentioned before, 1,100 lumens, it weights only 108g and is fully self contained, CNC machined aerospace quality aluminum body (AKA: It’s tough as nails and water resistent) and comes with three different light settings that can burn for up to 24 hours depending on the OMS setting.

To top it off, Exposure packages it up in a clean, sturdy case to keep it organized and together which makes for easy packing in nearly any bike or gear bag.

This is by far, pound for pound, the best light in the tightest package, I’ve ever used. The Diablo MK4 gets my vote as the highest quality and most versital light on the market.

2013 Diablo MK4 Specks:

Diablo Mk4 Technical Information

Weight: 108g

Output: 1100 lumens

Power: 3100mAh Lithium Ion battery

Burn time: 1 — 24hrs (depending on OMS selection)

Emitter: 3 Cree XPG R5 LEDs.

Cable Free Design (CFD): A primary feature unique to Exposure Lights removes the hassle of cables and straps. Utilising the critically acclaimed Exposure Lights Helmet Mount.

Function button: 3 colour Mode and Fuel Gauge indicator that doubles as the OMS display.

Intelligent Thermal Management (ITM): Patented technology that combats the loss in efficiency of LEDs at elevated temperatures, maintaining optimum output keeping you shining ‘Brighter for Longer’.

Smart Port Technology Plus (SPT+): Patented technology that enables a wide range of accessories to be used; Additional rear lights, back-up power supplies, remote switches and even charging other USB devices direct from your light.

Collimated Lens Technology: Exposure Lights use these high-tech resin lenses which have been extensively researched. These lenses are specifically designed to maximise light collection from the LEDs and efficiently produce an optimum beam pattern for cycling ensuring no light is wasted.

Weatherproof Body: CNC machined aerospace grade aluminium body with efficient heat transfer design. Fully manufactured in the UK.
Gold plated charge port: The charge port is gold plated for corrosion resistance, more efficient conductivity and it is sealed to a greater level adding protection to you light.

Storm Cap: The Smart Port in protected by a silicone cover to stop muddy gloves pushing dirt into the port.

Includes: Helmet mount, Lanyard and Smart Charger

Aston Hill — Surface To Air on Pinkbike

Typically when I take him out, he’s a good enough dog and follows my commands, that i’m comfortable with him being off leash. Obviously, when I’m riding, using a leash would probably disastrously for both of us. He’s a good dog. Like most dogs, he’s smart enough to get out peoples way which brings me to this point. Some dogs should be required to be on a leash. Weather they’re in training or maybe they’re just not that friendly… I genrally hope the owner is smart enough to make the correct decision there. The main problem though, for dogs on a leash is when the owner decides to try and force the dog off the trail to get out of your way. It typically happens like this: The owner steps off the trail and gives a tug on the leash assuming the dog will follow. The dog, feeling the tug, notices that their owner is trying to pull them off the trail and into the bushes or trees. The dogs natural reaction is to resist. I don’t blame him. None of us want to get yanked into the bushes, off the trail. So, the dog is now perpendicular on the trail, taking up even more room than before. The owner, usually gets mad, yells at the dog and yanks even harder. By now, we’ve all come to a complete stop and the peaceful day has turned into a struggling moment.

98% of the time, dogs will just get out of the way without any fuss. Leashed or not. They’re smarter than people give them credit for and if they get hit once, they’ll learn a quick lesson and it probably wont happen again.

On my ride today, I caught up to a lady and her two dogs on the trail. She was pedaling along and her two dogs were following close behind. As I approached the first dog from behind, it quickly noticed me, stepped off the trail and stopped to let me pass. When I went by, it quickly got back on the trail and followed my wheel as if I was the new pack leader. I approached the second dog and it did the exact same thing. I was so impressed. I wish every dog including my own could be trained this well.

I realize not every pooch out there is tuned to this degree and they don’t have to be. It’s more a matter of how the leaders of the pack, you and I, handle their trail time too.

If your dog joins you on the trails, that’s great. Just make sure to respect others out there by controlling your dog however your dog requires. If you’re out on the trail with others who have their pups, give them some space, and treat them as you would any fellow trail user.

Enjoy the ride. Love how you live and enjoy this super dog footage.

I’ve been looking forward to racing cross, since mid summer. I finally had a designated cx bike so things were pretty much in place. I knew I’d miss at least the first two races due to a surgical procedure at the end of September, but I figured I’d only be out for about a week at the most. That wasn’t exactly the case and it’s taken quite a bit longer to feel comfortable enough to race the bike again. Riding hasn’t been too much of an issue, but racing and riding are two, totally different worlds.

Such is life. We take what we get and keep rolling forward… and what better way to roll forward than with some good old cross racing. There’s no better race scene around. If you’re a fan of cycling, you could spend nearly the entire day at the races, just watching. The courses are short and action packed and everyone has a great attitude.

As much as I wanted to fret over the amount of sleep the week before, what I ate for breakfast or how I would warm up; I pushed all that out the door and settled in to just have fun and enjoy being back on the bike.

Cross racing isn’t something you can really take lightly, though. It’s freaking hard. You’re pretty much pinned for an hour. There’s really not much time for recovery and you’ve got to have you’re A game when it come to the bike handling skills. Then, throw in some barriers and you’ve got your self a great time.

The crowds are awesome. The announcers are top notch and the hand-ups are like grab bags. You never really know what you’re going to get but you can count on it being exactly the wrong thing at the right time.

Last weekend race was good for me because I could hide behind some thick rim glasses and super tight pants. Next weekend I’m hoping to be back again. Same big smile, different tight clothes.

My hats off the UTCX folks and everyone else that comes out the make the Utah cross races, some of the best around.

I’ll be the first to admit, I’m far from perfect and there are times when I don’t succeed, I find myself evaluating the scenario, in hopes of a reason other than my own imperfections, that justifies my loss. And most of the time, it comes right back on my shoulders.

For many reasons, I find the Lance Armstrong situation a sad and unfortunate culmination of events. In my opinion, there is no other cyclists who has done more for the sport than Lance. Especially in America, where cycling has never been mainstream. Because of Armstrong, it put us on the map. It opened the door for thousands of people to get out on their bikes and discover what we, as cyclists, all know and love. How many people do you know that aren’t “cyclists” but are still glued to the television for three weeks in July. How many times have you been yelled at by the idiot in a car, the words “Go Lance”. On one particular occasion, a young boy, maybe 10 years old, shouted “Go Neil Armstrong.” I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. This kid obviously needs to get his American heroes straight, but that fact that he put the two together, cyclists and Armstrong, made an impression on me.

To many, Lance has been a hero. A motivation to get on the bike and do something amazing. An example that one can survive a deadly disease and ride away, living strong. He’s been the topic of conversation, bridging the gap between your football obsessive coworker and you, the guy that for some reason shaves his legs and drinks bottle after bottle of water all day.

In my lifetime, I don’t believe there will be another cyclist that can match what he has done, specifically in the Tour de France and for cycling in America. I don’t think there is a cyclist out there that has the time, money and motivation to invest that much into his or herself, to win seven in a row. I just won’t happen. It takes an incredibly selfish person to be a champion. Which also has it’s pros and cons. On the flip side, that same person that will stop at nothing, try everything imaginable and go to what ever expense is necessary, will typically have no problem taking some sort of performance enhancing drug to get there.

In any sport, the elite are few. There are those with raw talent, 100% love and devotion for the sport that on any given day, can out wit, out play and out perform anyone. Then, there are those that are also 100% devoted to the sport but don’t have talent or love. Their desire to win runs deep and stops for nothing. They’re the cheaters. We find these individuals everywhere in the sporting world. Look close and you’ll find these individuals everywhere in the business world as well. It’s the unnatural man, seeking the top. There’s a place in my heart that wants to believe that most champions are clean. That they are the individuals out there busting their butts, sacrificing what it takes and being accountable for their actions or lack there of. There’s a place inside me that wants to believe that guys like Lance, that have been tested over and over, are actually clean and that he may be that sort of, true, raw athlete. And that what they say about his extra large lungs and that fact that his body doesn’t produce lactic acid like the rest of us, could be one of the reasons he was so dominant. But in the same breath, It wouldn’t surprise me one bit, if at some point in the future, Lance, now out of money, decided to write a book and list all his dirty little secrets. If this is the case, I’m sure there will be a lot of finger pointing and calling others out.

What I’d like to see, is a stronger focus on what’s currently happening in the cycling world and what’s to come in the future. Lance is done, he’s time is over and well in the past. We’re a society that is moving forward so fast, that holding onto things like this are really not worth all the trouble. And besides, who wants to get awarded a win or the yellow jersey five to ten years after the fact. It’s not like that will do anything for your career, assuming you haven’t been busted for doping as well. The fact of the matter is, there’s a good chance Lance, doped, there’s a good chance he didn’t. There’s an equally good chance that everyone he was racing with at the time was also doping. Who really cares anymore. There’s no justice in this type of justice in my opinion.

So, to those of you out there, riding and racing because you love it. Because it’s your passion. Because it consumes you and makes you a better person. To those of you out there who have survived hard times and are living stronger than ever before, KEEP IT UP. Look to the future and continue to do what you do because you are the new generation of inspiration to us all. Hero’s will continue to come and go. Rarely are they as timeless as you and I, and if for some reason they’re beyond great, someone will find a reason to bring them down. Don’t buy in to the hype, the glitz and fame. Just ride your mountain bike on really really good single track, climb mountain passes and do it in the company of best friends. Ride because you love the ride.