XXC Magazine

WE'VE MOVED!!

2011-02-18T10:51:00.002-05:00

The XXC Magazine Blog is now the XXC News page located at XXCMAG.COM! The Blogger site will no longer be updated. So if you have us linked (and I hope you do!) Please re-link to XXCMAG.COM.

Thanks!

Jason at XXC Mag

Digital Moves To MagCloud.com

2011-02-10T13:13:00.005-05:00

Some good news to share (at least for me) concerning the ease of getting digital downloads and print issues of XXC Magazine to readers. Both digital AND print issues will be available direct from MagCloud.com. Buy a print issue, get the digital for FREE, or just buy the digital for the same low price of $2.25 (about the same price of a tall at Starbucks I think, but I'm not sure on that).

There are some view setting I would like to share with you, since the digital version coming from MagCloud.com will be set as individual pages, and many of the the photos and stories in XXC Mag are best viewed as double page spreads. It's super easy...

I recommend using Adobe Acrobat and use the following View settings: Go to View, Page Display, 2 Up, Show Cover Page During 2 Ups. This will allow for proper display of 2 page spreads and to maximize pleasure. If using Mac Preview go to View, PDF Display, 2 Page Continuous. Having said all that, view as you wish it's your mag, I'm just glad you're reading it!

In the near future all print and digital copies (XXC #5 onward, 1- 4 will remain at XXCMAG.COM) will be sold through MagCloud.com. The easier things are for me on the business and customer service end, the more I can pursue content and work on the mag. There will be some slight price differences on an archived issues due to some fees on my part, but only .25¢ in most cases. New issues will continue to be $2.25.

I'm also not certain, but new issues may also be sold via XXCMAG.COM for the first month of their release, especially in the event of a reader contest. MagCloud boasts in their press release that the mags can be viewed now via PC, Mac, WebOS, iOS, Android, or any device that supports PDF." I only know about 1% of what all that means (my age is showing, isn't it?).

iPad- At this time there is no dedicated iPad version of XXC Magazine. I apologize. I have heard from some folks that there are ways to view XXC on the iPad, but I do not have first hand info on this. The only first hand info I have is that some folks downloaded some issues of XXC that were Zipped and it did not work. But I also hear from other folks that they got the PDF loaded. Digital issues on MagClould will not come compressed and should pose not issue.

More info on digital viewing is available HERE.

Print- Print issues of XXC #5 through #10 are still and will continue to be available via MagCloud.com. Prices vary based on issues length (there is a per page charge), and whether I was able to finagle a production discount or not. Believe me, I know the prices are a nuts on some of the issues of the print mag, but please keep in mind that my original goal (and I think my current goal) is to have XXC as an eMag to keep production costs down. Having an "on demand print option is/was just a bonus. I do love the mag in print though and will continue to offer it.

To be brutally honest with you (and myself for that matter) based on sales (digital and print) over the past year, there are still not enough folks reading the mag to warrant further investment in print production. Most mainstream mags keep the costs low due to the overwhelming amount of ads in their magazines. XXC has a handful of core advertisers and the revenue generated is just not enough to back printing 1,500+ magazines and praying I sell them in order to break even.

Back to digital- In the future I would like to continue to pursue the digital format more. We have an amazing sport, I want to be able to showcase it with amazing photos, first hand race and epic ride accounts, video, audio interviews, and more. This is more than I know how to do, but hell the mag is only 2 years old! There's plenty of time for world domination (and maybe more in print too).

Caps & Kits- 2011 XXC Mag caps and kits have come and gone. I plan to place a new cap order, but there will be no further jerseys or kits ordered in 2011. Thanks for the support on this one. I was stoked with the way the caps came out, and sold out of the extra 20 I ordered in less than 48 hours. Even my seven year old son stole one from me! (He's been in "time out" since. I kid of course).

Tees- I might have some more tees in the near future, but need to get some other things taken care of. Like getting that new frame of mine built up. Again, I kid.... Should have some more in the coming weeks.

As always, thank for the support and keeping XXC Magazine going. Issue #10 is out and about, and Issue #11 is in the planning stages. Got a story? Some killer pics? A two wheeled adventure to share? Shoot me an e mail and let's discuss. Might get you a couple bucks, or some XXC and/or advertiser shwag.

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

Integrated Performance Medicine, Part 2

2011-01-18T19:31:00.005-05:00

If your endurance racer or athlete, or just someone interested in nerdy fitness type things, check out Integrated Performance Medicine, Part 2 tomorrow. There was a Part I, but I dropped the ball on getting the word out in time, and am now banned in many, but not all, parts of the Colorado endurance community. I'm kidding of course, I just didn't have that much info to put out, but now I do, so here it is, and it comes courtesy of XXC contributor Ben Welnak. If you live in the Golden, Colorado area you can check it your in person, or you can watch it in streaming video on a bunch of websites. See below for more info. - Jason Mahokey, XXC Magazine.

What is Integrated Performance Medicine?

This meet up will be the second part to a comprehensive discussion on peak performance through peak health led by Nathan Daley, M.D. It will cover the science of exercise/training approaches, hormones, air quality, altitude, water quality, hydration, sleep, and psycho-social components of peak performance and health.

At part one of the series, Nathan explained

“Some new thinking in the world of performance enhancement and/or disease prevention. That is, the processes which lead to degenerative diseases are the same processes which impair endurance performance and, to maximize performance, we must enable the body to minimize and/or control and balance these processes. Thus, we can increase performance capacity by preventing and/or reversing disease, or we can prevent disease by increasing performance capacity.”

There was great audience participation that lead to a lot of discussion regarding training and nutrition.

When and Where?

The meeting will start at 6pm mountain time on Wednesday, January 19th in the Baker classroom, upstairs at the American Mountaineering Museum in Golden, Colorado.

American Mountaineering Center

710 10th Street

Golden, CO 80401

Streaming Live Video.

Can’t make it? Live streaming video will be available for those who cannot make it in person, though the slide content is not visible online and so the talk is mostly limited to audio. The PowerPoint will be available by email (DrDaley@leonardiinstitute.com) upon request. An archived version of the video will also be available.

Starting at about 5:45pm ( U.S. mountain time),

we’ll be streaming live on the following websites:

http://www.epicendurancecycling.com/?page_id=320

http://www.303cycling.com

http://www.benwelnak.com

http://www.themakerofshoes.com

http://www.thebikehubcyclingteam.com

Live on Social Media!

If you can’t be there, but still want to ask questions, you can go to:

Facebook: Ben Welnak (feel free to friend me, I don’t bite)

Twitter: @Bwelnak

Who is Nathan Daley, M.D.?

Nathan Daley, M.D., M.P.H., is residency trained in preventive medicine, integrative medicine, diagnostic radiology, and environmental health. In a pursuit to understand the true entity of health, Dr. Daley has acquired an impressive background in emerging areas of medicine. After receiving an undergraduate degree in Microbiology and his M.D. from the University of Oklahoma, Dr. Daley underwent a clinical internship and diagnostic radiology training at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.

Frustrated by the overemphasis on end-stage disease and lack of health-oriented pursuits in modern medicine, Dr. Daley began investigating the origins of health from an ecological perspective involving gene-environment relationships and an individuals way of interacting with the environment. Nathan is an avid runner and cyclist and brings his experience on the trail together with his knowledge in the medical field.

The IditaTour: Part Two

2011-01-14T19:27:00.002-05:00

Walk, run, skip, ride, click, surf, whatever you need to do to get over to Mike C's Big Wheel Building and see IditaTour: Part Two. Just amazing stuff.

2011 Dirty Kanza Registration Opening Soon!

2011-01-14T10:16:00.005-05:00

2011 Dirty Kanza 200 registration opens Saturday 1.15 at 6 AM ET. Last year the 150 slots filled up in less than 14 hours. So this year's field limit is increased to 350 racers! But given the growing popularity of this infamous gravel event, it could very well sell out. So if you want your chance to suffer Kanza style, you better not sleep in!

If you want to know more about the DK200 check out the DK 200 web site. While you're there check out the photo gallery which contains a bunch of sweet photos from Adventure Monkey Eric Benjamin. You may remember Eric from his most excellent pics and story in XXC Magazine's 2010 DK200 Special Edition which can be seen below via Issuu.com.

Open publication - Free publishing - More xxc magazine

CLICK TO VIEW IN FULL SCREEN

If you want you very own copy of the eMag you can DL it at xxcmag.com for just 99¢ or if you have an iPad you can head to MagCloud.com and download it for FREE (with their MagCloud App). Or you pick it up in print for just $5.20.

What will this year's race have in store for racers? More heat and wind? Thunderstorms? Or Wizard of Oz-esqu tornadoes? XXC Magazine will have a rider or two at this year's event to capture the pain and suffering that is sure to go down in the Kansas Flint Hills this June. So stay tuned or that coverage from us later in 2011!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Whiskey Off Road '11 Single Speed Madness

2011-01-13T15:41:00.009-05:00

From the find folks at Epicrides.com....

(Tucson, Ariz.) Jan. 11, 2011. . . . Participants in the single speed category at the Whiskey Off Road could win a free trip to the 2011 Single Speed World Championships Aug. 27 in Ballyhoura, Ireland.

Epic Rides, in partnership with the Single Speed World Championships, will award the first place male and female finishers in the 50 Proof single speed categories round-trip airfare to attend the World Championships. This award, along with the $20,000 cash purse for pro riders – with male and female riders receiving equal payout – is one reason the Whiskey Off Road appeals to top level endurance mountain bikers.

“Those familiar with the unique subculture of single speeding know the nomadic Single Speed World Championships is an annual event not to be missed,” said Todd Sadow, Epic Rides president. “We are proud to take part in sending some of America’s most talented single speeders to such a fine celebration among the world’s cycling community.”

The 2011 Whiskey Off Road endurance mountain bike event, located in Prescott, AZ, will take place Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 1. The challenging course, festival atmosphere and superb organization of the Whiskey attract a large number of riders, supporters and spectators.

Amateur registration opened Jan. 3 and is limited to the first 1,400 registrants. With three days of event related bike racing, fun rides, a well attended industry expo and live music based in the “Event Hub” of Prescott’s commerce district, Epic Rides expects the amateur category to sell out in record time.

Online and snail-mail registration forms can be found at epicrides.com.

Amateur athletes will enjoy their choice of graduated distance options including a 15 Proof, 25 Proof or 50 Proof course (1 proof = 1 mile). All events will start and finish in the center of downtown Prescott on Whiskey Row.

All participants who toe the start line during the three days of riding in the Prescott National Forest will have the opportunity to earn a custom finisher pint glass just for completing the distance they registered to ride within the allotted time – not an easy task. Those who complete their course fast enough to finish in the top five will receive a custom Whiskey Off Road flask. For the junior categories, podium finishers will receive custom Whiskey Off Road stainless steel water bottles. All categories will receive product from industry sponsors in addition to the customized awards.

All participants who register for the Whiskey Off Road on or before March 26 will receive an event goodie bag valued at a minimum of $75, including T-shirt, water bottle, poster and publication plus assorted samples from event sponsors. The registration fee is $85 plus a $10 minimum donation to the Yavapai County Food Bank.

The IditaTour: Part One

2011-01-05T19:29:00.002-05:00

I encourage you to go to lacemine29.blogspot.com (Mike Curiak) to watch part one in a three part video/photo series that highlights his 2009 of his Iditarod experience last winter- The Iditarod Trail from Knik to Nome without outside support. I would have posted it up here, but it seems proper that folks head to his site. Really a good watch.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Approaching Deadline

2011-01-05T13:31:00.003-05:00

Just a reminder that the deadline for ordering XXC Magazine jersey's, and bibs is this coming Monday, January 10th. It is also the deadline for pre ordering caps. There will be a few extra caps around early spring, but not at the pre-order prices.

Dave Sidery sent in this pic of the XXC kit in action on New Years Eve
above Lake Tekapo, South Island, New Zealand. Thanks Dave!

Thanks to all the folks that have pre ordered. The support is appreciated and I sure I hope you will enjoy the jerseys and bibs, taking them on new adventures and logging many miles. To be blunt I know it is a pain in the ass to fork over cash for something that you won't get until March. But I thank you for spreading the XXC love. Someday when XXC is a big glossy with loads of advertisers I will make sure the kits won't have to be sold like this! LOL.

TO PRE ORDER CLICK HERE.

Lastly, I'm about out of the last batch of "Fun Hurts" T shirts. Just some smalls and a couple larges remain. Not sure if I will get another run done or not. If I do, any color preferences from those of you who might want one?

Thanks,

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

Dirt Road Washtenaw

2011-01-02T12:09:00.004-05:00

This morning as I lazily perused the message boards of the MMBA (Michigan Mountain Bike Association) I stumbled upon the mention of a book called Dirt Road Washtenaw by Rob Pulcipher. The book covers over 700 miles of dirt roads across the Washtenaw County, Michigan area. I ordered up the book and am anxious to check it out more in depth.

While I love riding and racing single track more than anything, I must admit since moving to Michigan I have fallen in love with riding the dirt and farm roads that are just a couple miles from XXC World HQ in Mount Pleasant on my cross and mountain bikes. It will be fun to see some other routes from south east Michigan. Plus it looks like they have a few more hill than I have up here in Isabella County, and that might be worth the trip alone!

I know that 95% of you are not from Michigan, so the book would sort of do you no good, but I still wanted to share the work of someone who seems to be as in to riding the dirt roads via bicycle as much as many of us are. There are also some great links on his site to some reviews of the book and to a brief interview with Rob Pulcipher on Michigan NPR about the book.

I hope to have the book in a few days, give it a look, and then I will drop some opinions on you about it. In the future, maybe I can even link my way via dirt roads the whole way down the state? LOL!

For more information check out dirtroadwashtenaw.com.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Pre Holiday Random Info And Thanks

2010-12-21T16:21:00.004-05:00

I was going to Tweet some info, then I was going to FaceBook some info, but in the end decided to go old school and Blog the info.

The info is no real big deal, but here it is is random order with no value on importance or lack there of....

1. I hope that everyone who ordered some merch in the past few days gets their goodies in time to put under the Festivus Tree. Your support is greatly appreciated.

2. Reminder- to those folks who want to sport some XXC-tastic kitz this season, the deadline to pre order a jersey, shorts, or cap (or all of those, if you wish) is January 10th 2011. The order will be placed that day with kits arriving and shipping from XXCHQ in very early March. There will be a few extra caps laying around this spring, but will not be available at the special pre order price.

3. XXC Magazine HQ will be closed from December 23 to December 28. Mags, and kits can still be ordered, but any t shirt or sticker orders will not be shipped until after the 28th.

4. Don't forget to consult the XXCMAG.COM Events page to plan you season. There are a ton of dates up, with more coming! If you have a confirmed date for and endurance race, shoot me an e mail and I will get it up on the site ASAP.

5. XXC Magazine #10 will be coming in late January. A few months ago, I wasn't sure a 3rd season of XXC and a 10th issue would happen, but damn it, it is!! In 2011 the goal is to get the print mag into some bike shops and into more hands in the coming year. Also look for more issues of XXC to be available for iPad, as well as our standard PDF eMag.

6. I want to give a SUPER FREAKING BIG thanks to all the folks that supported XXC with a purchase of the mag, down load, or merch purchase. I would also like to give a big thanks to XXC's advertisers. Advertising is not first and foremost on the priority list at XXC, but the folks we do have are some fine people who took a chance on XXC. Their belief in the vision of XXC means way more to me than their dollars do. Thanks!

7. Contributors! THANK YOU!! Without the contributors XXC can NOT happen. I thank you for your willingness and want to share your talents with XXC Magazine. In 2011 I will try as much as possible to make it worth your while. No there won't be big fat pay checks yet, but I will do my best to get you schwag, recognition, and when possible a few bucks for your time, work and talents.

8. That's it. Thanks for a great year, have a great holiday and good luck in 2011.

See you at the races!

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

Save The General Time Frame

2010-12-19T13:44:00.002-05:00

Racing The White Stuff (Info/Video Dump)

2010-12-17T10:05:00.012-05:00

Winter has come to the land of XXC Mag (central Michigan) and to much of the world. I hate the cold and have survived most of my almost 20 years of riding by hunkering down in the basement on the trainer. But now that I am a Michigander I am not permitted to complain about the cold (except while in my own personal panic room deep in the recesses of XXC Magazine HQ). Now I pretty much have to embrace the cold and snow. Which I am doing. Kicking and screaming the whole way, but doing nonetheless.

While I am not ready to embrace and or purchase a "fat bike" anytime soon, I have been having a blast getting out on some wintry, snow covered trails on my 29er. Just like night riding is a different beast from riding trails during the day, riding in the snow is also very different. Just as fun. Just different. I am also getting ready to do some cross country skiing this weekend with a couple of local endurance racers who also XC ski race. I am not a great, or even a good XC skier, but these guys are willing to drag me along with them. Believe me, I could use the fresh air and calorie burn (curse you Dogfish Head!), so I am not going to complain (except while in the aforementioned XXC Panic Room). XC skiing is a blast, and since I'm so bad, I burn like double the calories.

The next issue of XXC Magazine- Issue #10 will be out in late January, and is sure to have at least some coverage of snow riding or racing, and/or making the best of the white stuff to build endurance for the coming season.

But hey, that's all stuff about me (lame), and I am no expert on snow riding and racing, but a bunch of folks out there are, and eat this stuff up with a giant sized snow shovel like spoon. So here's a big azz info and video dump about snow racing for you (NOT lame!). There is a lot of info, but 'tis the season to time waste.

Racer roll over frozen Alaska during the 2010 Sustina 100.
Photo by Sustina 100.

For those fat bike loving snow loving enduro freaks, there are some events coming up to look out for; The Arrowhead 135 on Monday, January 31st, T he Sustina 100/50 on February 19, and The Iditarod Trail Invitational (350 or 1,100 miles!) starts Sunday, February 27th.

Here's some pretty freaking epic and amazing footage from the Iditarod race. Complete with Eye of The Tiger soundtrack which continues to endure its own Rocky like self after 25+ years. Check it out!

And here is some video via the NY Times from back in 2008.
Worth watching for sure. (SPOILER ALERT: There is no Eye of The Tiger).

What you want OLD school? Here's some footage from 1988 (I was a Jr. in H.S. at this time with not thought of riding my bike at all let alone riding it in the snow).

Part II is HERE.

If you want to race in the snow, but aren't exactly ready for hundreds of miles in it, there are some other choices that range from 12ish to 25ish miles of snowy goodness.

First there is The Leadville Winter Mountain Bike Race Series:

The East Side Epic - January 22nd
Tennessee Pass Night Jam - February 19th
Mineral Belt Mayhem - March 5th

Then there's this Wisconsin fat bike freak fest-

Click the HERE for more info!

Here's a cool video from endurance athlete Dave Byers.

Dec 11, 2010 Snow Bike from Dave Byers on Vimeo.

Speaking of Dave Byers, he is behind the not for profit Togwotee Winter Classic Series.

Togwotee Race #1 - January 8th

Togwotee #2 - March 12th

For location, course, and start info check out the T.W.C.S. web page.

There seems to be a ton more snow races out there, and like I said, I am no expert, so feel free to post more in the comments or e mail me at xxcmag at gmail.com. Also check out the Fat Bike MTBR.COM forum for more info.

There are also a few other other races other there for regular old mountain bikes. Conditions for these races could range from frozen dirt and mud, to a few inches, to a few feet. Distances aren't exactly marathon, but when racing in the snow and slop of winter, it all gets epic, right?

Snotcycle: January 29th, Leesburg VA

The LOHS Winter MTB Race Series

The Chilly Willy Moonlight Madness (night) Race - January 22nd
and another one day race scheduled for Feburay 5th.

There are plenty of other winter slop and potential winter slop races coming in 2011 too. Including Southern Cross and The Barry-Roubaix (BTW registration is open for the Barry, so get on it!). The XXC staff (OK that would be me) will definitely be on hand at the Barry-Roubaix, and maybe the Moonlight Madness races. See you there!

I am kicking around the idea of a winter riding photo gallery for the next issue. I will keep you posted on that. Maybe some prizes for the top 3? Hmmm... lots to think about over the Christmas and Holiday break.

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

2011 Cape Epic Route

2010-11-23T19:51:00.002-05:00

Check it out, one of the most famous mountain bike stage races in the world, The Absa Cape Epic, has a sweet video up highlighting the 2011 route.

Truly an amazing race and a cool video.

BTW, keep those race dates coming in to XXC Magazine. I will continue to post them up, although, there will be no site updates until Sunday or Monday (other than the blog) due to the fact that I am out of state, away from the office and getting my Thanksgiving grub on.

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

Critical Dirt

2010-11-22T13:35:00.003-05:00

David Koßmann from fahrstil magazine in Germany checked in with me today with some pretty neat stuff. You may or may not remember David, he had a behind the scenes (but important) roll in issue #6, assisting Gunnar Fehlau with translating his article on the Grenzsteintrophy race from German to English.

Anyway, David shared a film that ertzuiº film shot on the 2010 Critical Dirt race. Critical Dirt is a unique four stage 126KM "cross" race over pavement, farm roads, trails and cobbles that took place between Dresden and Leipzig, Germany. Folks used cross bikes, mountain bikes, fixies, whatever it took to finish the race.

The film is very well done and worth checking out. I did find the amount of cigarette smoking in the the film a bit odd, but I guess we all have our vices.

CRITICAL FILM from e r t z u i ° film on Vimeo.

Thanks for sharing the film with us David! By the way check out the fahrstil magazine site. The mag looks very well done. Might see if David will hook me up with a version to look at. I would say "read" but my German consists of about 3 words.

On a side note: Any XXC Magazine T shirt orders placed between Tuesday, November 22 and Sunday, November 28 will not ship until Monday the 29th. Sorry for any inconvenience, but the office will be close for turkey day traveling to PA. Thanks and have a safe and great holiday.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Thanks, Updates, Kits? and Goals

2010-11-17T15:16:00.006-05:00

First let me say thanks to you all for another great season of XXC. While the mag is still far from the world dominating grip that the ad packed glossy mags have, the mag gets a little bigger with every issue. Sure I can't get a (non mag) cycling news outlet to publish a press release from me to save my life (must think XXC is too low brow for 'em), I am still sneaking the word out to the masses via word of mouth, t shirts, stickers, and a kick ass digital and print mag about the greatest sport in the world. Not to mention a nice group of racers who kicked some ass this year sporting some fine looking XXC Mag kits. They didn't have to. They just did, and that helped a lot. Thank you.

I am proud of the mag and the work I have done on it, and I hope to keep all that up in the coming months, not to sound like some sort of guest/host banter from The View, but what makes the mag the mag is YOU! I can't stress that enough. Your willingness to share your race accounts, talents, photos and experiences with XXC is what make the mag. My only regret is not yet being able to compensate my contributors as they should be. I'm getting there though, just stick with me please. To all the contributors of XXC Magazine: Season Two I say thank you from the bottom of my chamois.

___________________________

Don't forget- From now until December 13th if you purchase a digital download or send me the order #, etc., from your MagCloud order your e mail will be put in the digital fishbowl for the chance to win a sweet prize package from XXC, Squirt Lube, ByeKyle, Ergon, and Princeton Tec. Click here for more details.

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A new addition to the XXCMAG.COM site is the EVENTS page. There used to be a kick ass endurance calendar site for all things endurance, but it seems to have not been updated in a LONG time, so I am doing my best to compile and list 2011 events as they become available to me. If you have a race that needs listed please shoot me an e mail (via the contact page). Also there is some ad spots open on the page. If you would like to sponsor the EVENTS page (ad would be the banner at top of the list) for 2011, or feature your event on the page with an ad shoot me and e mail.

___________________________

Kits? Been getting some questions about the XXC Magazine team kits. So I am not officially trying to see if there is any real interest from folks in another order of XXC Mag kits. If I order them by Christmas I would hope to have them by February. It would once again be PRE ORDER ONLY. I would love to float this and order up a bunch and sell, but it's all too pricey and the mag is not exactly making my credit score look too peachy! LOL! I may add in caps this time too. There would be no pre order required for the caps. In case you forgot what the kits look like see below....

Jerseys...

Bibs...
Caps...

Options? You would NOT have to order complete kits. Just a jersey? Just shorts? No problem! Jerseys would be racer cut only, men's or ladies cut. Shorts would be bibs or regular. Caps are the caps- one size fits all, yada, yada, yada... The shorts design may be altered a bit, meaning I might ditch the fun hurts tag on the ass and replace it with something more offensive. Kidding- I mean less of course. But I will let you know before this gets official.

2011 prices are yet TBD, and all of this is of course based on whether I get enough interest and enough pre orders to do it. If you would happen to pre order a jersey and in the end XXC can not place the order due to lack of order your money will be refunded ASAP. I would have liked to have done this earlier in the year but in the midst the stress of moving and wondering if XXC would even be around in 2011, I didn't think it wise. Now I do. ;) So if you think you might be interested, post a comment here on the XXC Facebook page. Also if you own a shop and think you might want to order some to sell in your store, shoot me and e mail and we'll discuss pricing. Thanks.

I addition to the kits there might be some word soon on the return of popular t shirt design. Not sure yet, but if the planets align...

___________________________

Goals? We all have them, and I have quite a few for the coming year. Personally I plan to get back to racing more. While I was NEVER a podium finisher (other than a few 3rd places, and a few "dick spots" to my credit), I was happy enough competing right in the middle of the mid pack. After a year of stress, a second DVT in my leg, and moving, I hope to get back to more racing across my new state of Michigan as well as some of my fave NUE races and endurance events. And as far as goals for the magazine I have a few there too...

1. Increase advertising. Yes ads. If I can get a few more advertisers to commit then I can focus on goal two.

2. Maybe ditch MagCloud in attempt to get the print mag less expensive to purchase. I doubt that I can get it under $5 even with more ads, but I can probably get it under $10. Having said that, I don't want to compromise the look. Meaning no thin ass paper, b&w photos, etc., If my vision of XXC is compromised and it looks like shit, I fail. Not good. But if I can, maybe I can get copies into the bike shops without going to debtors prison. 2b. Look for a publisher that digs the XXC vibe and will work me me to unleash it cheaper?

3. Revise the web site. This has already started behind the scenes, hope to have something in the works by the time spring rolls around.

4. Make it to InterBike next year to get the face of the folks who won't return my e mails! LOL!

5. This is sort of a hard goal for me, but I need to have more fun with the mag and realize that I have the greatest job in the world. Sure the pay sucks, but hey I get to ride at a time of day when most folks are having their 3rd cup of coffee or giving the boss the first of many 'birds' behind his/her back. I also get talk about bikes and bike racin' all day (or all night, if I indeed did take that brunch time ride), and work with great photos and cool stories from all over the world. The wife has got my back, and my boy thinks what I do is "cool." I need to not care if my neighbors are wondering why I never leave the house for work, or why most folks see me in either a bike kit or flip flops and shorts most of the year. I do what I do and I love it. Not to mention as graphic artist/designer I have seen my stuff go from "OK" to stuff I really love in the past 2 years. Yet another reason my old employer can suck it. LOL! I look forward to learning more and doing more with XXC in the months to come.

OK, this might be the LONGEST XXC Blog post EVER. Sorry. But let me know about the events, kits, etc., And don't forget to contribute your story to XXC. XXC #10 is due out in late January and I have some pages to fill!

Thanks!

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

TranRockies Announces TR4

2010-11-10T13:47:00.005-05:00

TranRockies Announces TR4 as part of 10th Anniversary
New event will create the opportunity for riders to complete the entire route solo

2011 will be a momentous year for the TransRockies as it celebrates 10 years as North America’s original epic mountain bike stage race. The 10th edition of the race just got a even litte more special with the addition of a new TR4 solo event that will take riders along an incredible route through the best trails in Kananaskis Country to the finish line in Canmore.

TransRockies’ first solo event, the TR3, debuted in 2009 and has grown quickly over the two years it has been held. With demand for solo riding opportunities continuing to grow, TR4 gives riders a chance to take on this epic route through front ranges of the Alberta Rockies.

The TR4 will be North America’s first four-day mountain bike stage race and will be closely modelled on 4-day TransGermany, a partner event of the TransRockies that drew over 1200 riders last year to ride through the Alps. TR4 riders will ride concurrently with the field for the TR7 team event and will take on the same revamped route for stages 4 and 5 that has been extensively scouted during the unseasonably warm and dry Alberta fall that has greatly extended the riding season. With help from local riding clubs and trail experts, the TransRockies team has spent extensive time on the trails this fall developing a new routing along higher terrain and away from the lowlands which turned muddy after the unseasonably wet weather in 2010.

Starting east of the village of Millarville in Kananaskis Country, the TR4 will finish with the TR7 the main event in Canmore, Alberta. Racers will camp two nights at the Little Elbow Campground, used for the first time in 2010, allowing stage 5 to be a loop on some of the favourite mountain bike trails of the area. The third night of camping for TR4 will be at Rafter Six Ranch, near Seebe, Alberta.
Rafter Six, the traditional last night of the TransRockies Alberta route will welcome the riders with authentic western hospitality.

The TR4 adds a number of new opportunities for mountain bikers as they can link the TR3 and TR4 solo events to ride the entire route solo for the first time. This route also gives riders the opportunity to have a little more civilized sleeping option as they can easily spend nights in town with vehicle support from family or friends since all starts and finishes are within approximately an hour of Calgary city limits.

Just like the other TransRockies events, the TR4 will have complete a la carte pricing starting with an early bird base price of $700 (until December 31st) for the four days of backcountry racing. Riders can choose their own add-ons like meals and camping and create their own custom package. After January 1st, the cost rises to $850 but the pricing for additional services remains the same.

TR3 will remain the UCI S2 stage race at TransRockies and we expect to have a great field of elite riders at the start line in Fernie fighting for UCI points in the run up to the 2011 World Championships and the 2012 Olympics.

TR4 registration will open on Thursday, November 18th at 10:00 AM MST. Only 100 registration spots are available during the early bird registration period, and these are expected to go very quickly, so be ready to register on the 18th!

For complete TR4 pricing and registration details, visit www.transrockies.com. Sign up for TransRockies newsletters and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Paul Done,
Epic Media.ca

_____________________________

By the way if you want to read Paul's daily recaps from the 2010 TransRockies check out XXC Magazine #9!

XXC #9 CONTEST!

2010-11-09T14:06:00.003-05:00

FIRST, before I get into the contest. Big thanks to the folks who have purchased XXC #9 in digital and/or print. Much appreciated. A not for the digital customers. PLEASE do not attempt to open with your iPhone or similar device. First, there is a real good chance it will crash your phone, and 2nd, XXC needs to be viewed on a bigger screen. A phone screen just cannot do it justice. Thanks! Now on to the contest....

As I mentioned last week, XXC is having a new contest to celebrate the launch of XXC #9. Anyone who has purchased, or plans to purchase XXC #9 by noon December 13th, will have their e mail addy will be put into a digital fish bowl and you will have the chance to win some sweet prizes (see below).

Grand Prize: 1 pair of Ergon GX2 Grips, a sweet little Princeton Tec EOS Bike light, a bottle of Squirt Dry Lube, 2 ByeKyle Simple Straps (color: Goth Black and Hunting Vest Orange), some XXC Mag stickers, and an XXC T Shirt (size availability may vary).

2nd and 3rd place will receive an XXC Mag sticker pack, a ByeKyle Simple Strap (color: Molly Ringwald era Pretty In Pink), and a bottle of Squirt Dry Lube.

The winners will be drawn on December 13th, 2010. If you purchased the print mag via MagCloud and want in on the contest (as you should) shoot me an e mail at xxcmag (at) gmail.com, with your MagCloud order, and I put your name in the contest and get you a digi copy of XXC #9. I guess it goes without saying that purchase is necessary. Few will enter, fewer will win. The last part is a joke. Good luck and thanks for the support.

One last thing- If you are a Cross racing junkie and dig Cyclocross Magazine, you can save $2.00 on subscription by using the coupon code: XXCfriend.

Jason Mahokey,
XXC Magazine

Lost Article And Stuff

2010-10-31T20:38:00.005-04:00

Man, there was a simple two page spread that I wanted in XXC Mag #9. I worked on it for a day or two to get the look I wanted. In the end I had to cut it due to the fact that while I LOVE being able to offer folks a print option for the mag, I need to do it through MagClould.com and that is pricey at 20¢ per page. Not to air my dirty laundry (or Soiled Chamois') but all but $2 of the print copies is production. Yep, $11 issue yield $2 (and that is also with working with MagCloud to help discount the mag. Good thing I don't have a day job to worry about quitting, because that really wouldn't cut it.

Anyway, the only reason I mention all this is that A. I read the stuff out there on the Net that says "great mag, but too pricey." and yeah, it is not cheap, but I just want to be honest with my readers about what I am getting out if it. And B. My goal for XXC was to make it a digital mag because I knew I could offer unlimited pages and coverage to our great sport and not have to worry about page counts. Well then many readers asked for a print mag. I gave them that but now am faced with page count issues! HA!

Without more advertising, or an investor, XXC will stay as it is for some time. Some may dig that, some may be disappointed. I love this mag, and hope folks enjoy it. I plan on being back in 2011 and I hope you will join me.

Anyway, here is a .jpg of the spread I had to cut. It's just a blurb about the Gravel Worlds, but I loved working on this layout and finally got the look I wanted. Only to then have to cut it. F*ck page counts.

Congrats to all the folks who threw down a Gravel Worlds. Sucks I couldn't get this in. My apologies.

Thanks for all your support folks. Hope to be back in 2011.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Iron Cross '10 & Southern Cross '11

2010-10-12T21:18:00.003-04:00

Iron Cross 2011 is in the books. Here are some results....

SENIOR MEN:
1. Isaac Enderline (All-Star Bikes)
2. Adam Farabaugh (Appalachian Running Company)
3. Mike Keefer Gettysburg Bicycle / Hammer Nutrition

Friend and XXC Mag supporter/pimper Rob Lochner (Iron City Bikes) finished in an impressive 9th place and Pro Bikes teammate, friend and XXC Magazine racer Aaron Shelmire finished in 25th out of 80. Nice going guys and thanks for your continued support of the mag. Read Aaron's race report and his take on Iron Cross vs. The Hilly Billy Roubaix HERE. I don't doubt that Rob will get around to putting his thoughts up on his blog HERE.

MASTERS MEN:
1. Ron Glowczynski (RoanokeOutside.com/Mail-It Plus)
2. David Yacobelli Team Ommegang (Syracuse Bicycle/NoTubes.com)
3. Mike Laub (Mountainside Racing)

WOMEN:
1. Vicki Barclay (Freeze Thaw Cycles)
2. Bryna Blanchard (CBRC/Team Blutarsky)
3. Jenny Ives (CBRC/Team Blutarsky)

SINGLE SPEED
1. Harlan Price (Team CF)
2. Roger Masse (Trek 29er Crew)
3. Justin Pokrivka (Pro Bikes/Cohen & Associates) NICE!!

TANDEM
1. Andy Applegate (Champion Systems/Cannondale)
FYI- Andy graces the cover of XXC Magazine #7. Just sayin'.

From the reports and e mails with folks, it sound like this was a great day of racing. My plans to race Iron Cross were never materialized as traveling to D.C. last week and my families impending move to Michigan next week put the kibosh on those plans. Big huge props to Mike Kuhn from High Speed Cycling for continuing to put on a top notch event. BTW did you know that you can register for the 2011 event NOW?? Now THAT is some PREEE planning. Buy you will save yourself some dough. Click HERE to register and HERE for more results and info on Iron Cross 2010 AND '11.

Speaking of Cross....

Southern Cross 2011 is approaching!! The 2011 race will be held on February 26, 2011 at Montaluce Winery in Dahlonega, GA. Hmmmm "grappa" and bike racin'? While I enjoy beer a tad more than wine, a good dry red would go very nicely with some post race munchies thank you very much. For more information click HERE or if you're into the whole Facebook thing, visit the 55nine Performance page HERE for up to date info and details on when registration will go live.

To see 2010 Southern Cross coverage you can pick up a digital copy of XXC Magazine #6 for only $1.35 HERE, a print copy at MagCloud.com OR if you're into things that are free (and I have a feeling you are) you can check just click below, enlarge, head to page 6, read and enjoy.

Open publication - Free publishing - More bike

XXC has also done up a piece on the 2009 Southern Cross race some time ago, which can also be seen for free on Issuu.com HERE.

Hopefully the later date will lessen the threat of a snow storm induced postponement. But you never know! Stay tuned for more info.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Pavement Meeting Dirt

2010-09-23T10:55:00.000-04:00

Road riding. Not a big fan of doing it. But often a necessary evil in being a mountain bike racer (even being a semi-retired armature, beer loving mid pack at best one).

BUT, but riding the pavement until the the road turns to dirt is a different story. And I am a fan.

I've been seeking out the rural mountain roads and forest roads in the local lumps called the Laurel Mountains of PA for some time now. I've always used my 29er hard tail for those rides. But this past weekend I took to them using a freshly purchased cross bike. The result was a lot of this....

I learned a lot about bike handling (and my lack there of), tire pressure (way too much), canti brakes ("brakes?"), and the speed in which I can max out a 12/25 cassette on a climb (VERY quickly) during that 3 hour ride.

OK, enough about me, I blathered enough already my inability to haul 200 pounds of human up mountain dirt roads maxed out in 36/25. The reason for this post is to link up a couple good articles, and a video, so here we go...

There is a site called Velodirt.com out of Portland, Oregon that is keen on seeking out the dirt roads of the the PNW. I was reading that site when I stumbled upon link to the Rapha blog and a piece written by Jeremy Dunn of Embrocation Magazine. I highly recommend checking out both the VeloDirt.com site and Dunn's piece on the joy of riding gravel and dirt roads on Rapha.

As long as you promise to not to be brainwashed into buying the $550 Rapha Tailored Jacket (Swank? Surely, but really, you could use that cash for a new frame or fork!!) I also recommend viewing the video below from the 2010 Rapha NW Gentlemen's Race. While only 20% of the race was on dirt/gravel, it is another fine example of riding beyond the pavement and taking on the challenge of dirt and gravel.

Big climbs, mid ride meat stop, beer, and dirt roads. That's livin'! Maybe I WILL get me one of those $550 jackets after all. I kid. I'm a kidder. Or an ass.

The above mentioned VeloDirt site also took part in the Gentlemen's Race and has some pics and words up on their site. CHECK IT.

OK, time to got order that bigger cassette and mountain derailleur! Of course I am in the process of moving to the non mountainous state of Michigan... Maybe I should just stick with the current set up, and get some studded cross tires!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

2010 Chequamegon 40 Video and Stuff

2010-09-23T09:44:00.003-04:00

The Chequamegon 40 is the most popular mountain bike races in the Mid West, hell it might just might be one of the most popular mountain bike races in all of the U.S. It's been referred to as the "Leadville 100 of the Mid West" (just 60 miles less and not at 11,000 feet above sea level). I mean the thing is huge, boasting 1,700 racers on the start line! Like Leadville it also takes a fair amount of shit for not being all single track (it's made up primarily of cross country ski trails and dirt roads), but that doesn't mean it's not hard or an honor to win.

This year's Men's Overall winner was Brian Matter in 2:09:27 (18.9 avg mph!!!) followed 14 seconds later by Tristan Schouten, and Jason Sager just 18 seconds after him! That's some TIGHT racing. Matter has a race recap up on his Blog with pics n'at. You can Cheq it out (sorry) by clicking HERE. Tristan Schouten's account is HERE (mostly pics).

Men's podium. Photo by Skinnyski.com

Skinnyski.com also has a good write up on the event,
photos, and videos. Including this one below...

As I watched this video I saw this at the 1:20 mark >>

A racer, in full kit walking, as some others are doing, but where is the bike? Yikes! Whatever happened to it, must have REALLY sucked. Sure hope it wasn't a band of Wisconsin Highwaymen hopped up on cheese and Miller Light. Better luck next time I guess. EDIT: Brought to my attention that was not Wisconsin Highwaymen at all, but merely me not seeing the stokerless tandem that is farther ahead. Well that makes me feel a little better.

The Women's top spots went to Jenna Rinehart (2:26:32) in first, Sara Kylander-Johnson in 2nd, and Lisa Krayer in 3rd. Nice work!

Keep an eye out for XXC Mag #9, which is due to drop in a few-ish weeks (sorry for the delay, in the process of moving house!), you just might see a bit more about the 40.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

$20,000 at The 2011 Whiskey Off Road

2010-09-22T07:36:00.003-04:00

(Las Vegas, Nev.) Sept. 22, 2010

Epic Rides, producer of the Kona Bikes 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo, will host the largest one-day race cash purse prize in the mountain biking industry at the 2011 Whiskey Off Road in Prescott, Arizona on May 1, 2011.

The $20,000 purse will be split in half between the top ten male and female competitors for a unique equal payout opportunity in the world of bike racing.

“This equality is inspiring to women and is a testament to the uniqueness and individuality that mountain bikers embody. An equal prize purse nurtures independence, encourages tenacity, and adds legitimacy to women's racing,” said Heather Irmiger, 2009 U.S. XC and Marathon National Champion.

Epic Rides anticipates 1,500 riders (1,400 amateurs/100 professionals) will participate in three solid days of racing, riding and celebrating the mountain bike in Prescott, AZ from April 29^th – May 1^st. The weekend will kick off with a pro level fat tire Criterium, a well appointed industry vendor and tech expo, and beginner level “15 proof” fun ride on Friday (one proof = 1 mile.) Saturday will present a complete day of amateur riding in the 25 and 50 proof distances complimented by live music on the courthouse lawn and a full schedule of ancillary events and activities centrally located in downtown Prescott. The showdown for the cash purse will commence Sunday morning, after a spirited evening of celebrating on the historic Whiskey Row by the amateurs. The pro and amateur 50 milers will ride the same course.

The Whiskey Off Road course presents participants with an authentic mountain bike experience including an abundance of quality technical singletrack combined with very legitimate climbing and descending on a variety of terrains. Now in its 8^th year, the “Whiskey,” as it’s known, is an event capable of entertaining everyone, including the non-rider. With all event activities based in a centralized downtown location only 1.5 hours north of Phoenix, AZ the events accessibility and scope of accommodations are sure to entertain the anticipated 5,000+ attendees comfortably.

Registration for professional riders opens November 1, 2010 and amateur registration opens January 1, 2011.

“With 7 years of development invested into the Whiskey Off Road infrastructure made possible through significant cooperation from the City of Prescott and the Prescott National Forest, this is a major step forward,” said Todd Sadow, president of Epic Rides. “I strongly believe the 2011 Whiskey Off Road is an event model that can play a significant role in representing American mountain biking throughout the country. Tighten your woodscrews folks, the cross country mountain bike scene is about to get interesting.”

Todd Sadow, President Mountain Bike America, LLC. Dba Epic Rides
www.epicrides.com

2010 Wilderness 101 Video

2010-09-21T14:33:00.006-04:00

My buddy told me about this video by Hobbie Smith on Vimeo some time ago. I never got around to putting it up on the blog, but I think it deserves some attention. While I didn't race the 101 this year, I have raced it 3 previous times, and this video brought back at lot of memories (good AND bad!) of the race.

Take a look >>

Nicely done!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

XXC Mag World HQ: The R&D Room

2010-09-20T18:30:00.004-04:00

Yesterday you saw XXC Magazine World HQ (AKA a desk in a spare bedroom). Today you see the "R&D Room" (AKA my basement). Because while I don't race as much as I used to, and I don't ride as much as I used to, the bike is what makes a cyclist a cyclist. Without one we would be a hikers (GASP!).

It is clear I have too many bikes. I need to get rid of at least one. Wanna buy a Dos Niner?? LOL! But I do love them, and they are my bikes. These are not on loan, test for the mag and cheap rate bikes. Sure some have been acquired over time through sponsorship discounts, etc., But they are mine. I wish I took better care of them, I wish I was a better wrench, OK, I wish I knew how to wrench at all! And I wish they saw more miles than my almost 40, pudgy, mid pack at best ass can give them. But they are part of what is known as XXC World HQ.

Soon HQ will be moving, and I will have to ask the question- "Which bikes to I take on my own, and which bikes do I let the moving company take???" The Ti El Mariachi comes with me, and the road bike comes with me. The rest.... Well I will just do a little chant to the Bike Gods that day and hope for the best that day.

I hope you enjoyed this tour of XXC World HQ more than I did bringing it to you. It really wasn't that great was it? Sorry. Maybe in the future I'll have a real office, with employees, etc., Nah!!! Because then I wouldn't able to work in my boxers and look at porn on the clock!! ;)

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

XXC World HQ Tour #1

2010-09-19T21:49:00.005-04:00

I get a lot of e mails, and and see posts out there on the web that refer to the XXC "staff", etc., etc., I think a LOT of folks think that XXC Magazine is a large(r) mag, like the fine folks at Bike or Bicycling. In reality the mag is one person (sort of). XXC is not owned by anyone, it's not a marketing tool, or a money making glossy mag jammed with ads that you can pick up in your grocery store. It's sort of like that punk 'zine that your art school friends put out 20 years ago, except in full color, with a few ads, and nothing to do with Ian MacKaye.

What XXC IS, is a mag dedicated to endurance racing and epic adventures put out by a guy who used to rock the mid pack at endurance races, then got older, even slower, and fatter (LOL!), but did not lose the love of the sport. Of course I don't do it alone. The words are by YOU. I am just the guy that tries to put it all together. I am blessed to have a fine group of folks that are eager to contribute their words and pics to XXC, and others willing to pimp the mag at the races (Yep I'm talking to you Brad, Rob, Don, Aaron, Amy, Ben, and William and among others!). The contributors and folks out there racing is what makes XXC happen and I can't thank you all enough.

In the coming weeks XXC #9 will be getting tidied up and is due to publish in late October or early November. I wanted it to be out in early October, but as many of you may or may not know, XXC World HQ is moving to Michigan (Wife's job). So things are a bit nuts right now as I am sort of doing the solo dad thing whilst Wifey is in D.C., getting schooled on some new job stuff. But #9 IS coming for sure. Then a little break until 2011 as I look into what XXC needs to do to rule the world. Cheaper print? (not sure that is possible). iPad friendly? Digital only? Kill the print? Or give up and kill the mag?

For now though I give you part one in a two part XXC World HQ tour....

Exciting isn't it?? One iMac, a chair, a couple digital cameras, and an almost empty pint glass. Later I will continue the tour with a shot of the R&D Room (AKA The Bike Room).

Anyway, as XXC gets ready to close out the 2010 season, I just want to say thanks to all the folks that have contributed to XXC or helped support the mag by purchasing stuff from the Merch page or downloading the mag. It really means a lot.

OK, OK, time to get back to #9!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Race Across The Sky 2010

2010-09-19T10:37:00.002-04:00

Citizen Pictures is cooking up another film about Leadville. Always nice to see endurance racing get some film coverage. Would love to see some other races covered beyond Leadville. Check the trailer...

60 Minutes or 60 Miles?

2010-09-09T14:13:00.002-04:00

Cross season is just about upon us. Mud, cold, cowbells, pain, and beer tents (or at least small coolers filled with hoppy goodness). I've done a handful of cross races in my life, and they hurt. HURT BAD! Cross is far from my normal long and slower every year style of riding and racing, but I suppose it is great way to try to get faster, mix up disciplines, and enjoy some burning pain without racing for 6+ hours or contracting an STD. With cross you race for 45 to 60 minutes, cool down, warm up and then enjoy a few beers while watching other folks swallow their tongue and turn themselves inside out for 60 minutes.

But for those who want their cross and mileage too there's XXCross season (I made that term up by the way. Not like copyrighted, penalty of law type made up, but made up nonetheless). I'm talking about dirt road, double track, hike-a-bike, shit road type racing done on cross bikes. I've talked about it here before, and I'm talking about it again, because many of these races are coming up this fall.

First up there's the legendary Three Peaks cyclocross race in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's the UK's (dare I say Worlds?) original "let's ride 'cross bikes for a stupid long time over some stupid tough terrain" race.

Three Peaks 1961. 10 years before I was even born! I love it!

This race is for cross bikes only, mountain bikes are NOT permitted. The course is 38 miles in length with 5,000 feet of climbing and includes a number of footpaths and private land areas that 364 days a year are closed to cyclists, EXCEPT on race day. This is one of the most popular events on the UK cycling calendar and draws a huge number of racers, spectators and coverage.

Last year in XXC #4 Phil Ingham wrote a piece titled "The Ramblings Of A Three Peaks Obsessive." It was one of the funniest, and possibly one of the best pieces I've had a chance to work on for XXC. Check it out.

This year's Three Peaks will go down on September 26th. For more information on this classic event check out the Three Peaks website, and the Three Peaks Cyclocross Blog for a ton (or is that stone?) of tips, pics, videos and more!

The same weekend as the original Three Peaks race, Pirate Race Productions is hosting Three Peaks USA in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. The race will benefit the Mountain Alliance, which is a group committed to working with high school aged youth in Watauga County by helping them to realized their learning and leadership potential. Heck the students will even be out working as course marshalls, and aid station workers. Pretty sweet! The kids learn some stuff AND get exposed to the best sport in the world.

Three Peaks USA is 46.5 miles in length with over 5,500 feet of elevation gain. There will also be a 21.5 mile option for folks. Mountain bikes will have their own class for this one. For more information check out the Three Peaks USA website or for up to the minute updates join the Three Peaks USA Facebook page. To register visit BikeReg.com.

Then we have Iron Cross VIII- America's longest 'cross race! 62 miles of dirt, pavement and rocky Michaux State Forest love. Iron Cross was possibly the first race in the U.S. to take the Three Peaks format and get all freaky with it. This race continues to grow in popularity every year and attracts cross racers, mountain bikers, and roadies alike.

Iron Cross VII winner Jeremiah Bishop doing a little hike-a-bike.

Iron Cross VIII happens on Sunday, October 10th and is limited to 300 racers and filling up fast, so get on it and register now at BikeReg.com!

Then of course this winter there will be Southern Cross down in Georgia (date TBD), and then Barry Roubaix up in Michigan (soon to be my new home state) in late spring, OK, NOW I'm treading into Gravel racing with the Barry and that's a WHOLE other post/story/blathering, etc. Of course I can't forget the Hilly Billy in the summer.... Did you notice there is no REAL off season now?? Eeesh!

Hope you all have a chance to check out some of these XXCross races (yeah, I'm still using that term, get used to it). I'm sure I missed a few that are coming up or yet to be born, so if you know of an event where folks use cross bikes, act like cross racers, but race closer to 60 miles rather than 60 minutes, feel free to contact me. Also if you want to share pics or words of triumph, pain, remorse and/or regret from any of these races drop me a line, earn some shwag, and get your name in huge flashing neon lights (actually just in the mag, sorry).

Stay tuned to XXC Magazine for more on these races in the coming weeks and months.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Photo credits: Murrysville Cross- Jason Mahokey. Three Peaks- Unknown. Iron Cross VII- Don Pagano.

EDIT: I did miss one! Brian W., sent me some info on the Devil's Backbone Mountain Cross race. 65 miles, 50% road, 50% dirt, and about 6,600 feet of climbing in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you want to read what Brian had to say about the race, and check out the course and profile, go to his blog: BIKEWRIGHT. Thanks for the tip Brian.

Trans-Provence and A Review

2010-09-08T10:47:00.010-04:00

If you have some extra frequent flyer miles to fly to Europe, and are looking for stage race with a focus on single track and technical down hill single track, check out Trans-Provence in the Mediterranean Pre-Alps. Trans-Provence describes itself as a (not too) competitive 7 day stage race (ride) open to "all experienced and technically competent mountain bikers." While that certainly leaves me out the Trans-Provence peeps also say that it contains "more sweet single track than you can shake a stick at." Pretty sweet! But don't waste time shakin' sticks, check some of this out...

Race: Trans-Provence
Location: South-Eastern France
Date: September 25th through October 3rd, 2010
320 km
9,500 meters vertical ascent
15,200 meters vertical descent

Stay tuned, as my man in the UK Paul-E, MIGHT be checking this one out, and THAT means that XXC might have some coverage coming up. We'll see.

A review?

I have been trying to avoid the whole "bike review" thing in XXC Magazine, and will continue to do so for now, but figure the blog is a nice place to put up some quick feedback on some bikes and parts without appearing to be sucking at the teet of an advertiser . Not that I would do that, but worth sayin' (At least the teet of an advertiser, ha! Sorry). Annnyway... Since we're on the subject of technical, downhill-ish single track and the riding there of, XXC Mag contributor Jesse Stevens had a chance to demo a 2011 Orbea Rallon through his shop Velocity Bicycles in Huntington, WV. Review Declaimer: Jesse's shop is an Orbea dealer but does not currently stock them. No cash, selling of kidneys, nights in the Champagne Room or anything else spawned this review. Just the chance to test out a new bike on some technical West Virginia singletrack.

On to the testy....
___________________________________

Orbea Rallon

Those in the know and know what’s popular in Europe will tell you that long travel bikes have been a huge segment of the bike market for the last 5 years. While we have been plugging away on the 29er trail on this side of the pond, it’s been slowly growing in popularity here as well. For 2011 many companies are offering 140-150mm travel 26” bikes with a surprisingly low weight and one of those is the Orbea Rallon. Orbea was kind enough to provide me with an XT kitted version for extended testing and it comes with nice Mavic wheels and a Fox thru axle fork.

My first impression was that of surprise at the weight, 28 lbs. for a bike with XT, 5 inches of travel and Time pedals is more than respectable (especially at $4,000 retail). After climbing on board and pedaling it around the steep climbs at the local trails I was very pleased with the feeling of efficiency. Although it does climb very well and it feels great on twisty single track. This bike is made for rocky, rooty, nasty, dirty and FUN mountain biking. The geometry was tailor made for turning the worst of the worst into the just plain fun! And it does that very well. In the 2 months I've been riding it, the Rallon has seen the rockiest trails that WV has to offer and I've laughed my way over all of them. Recently I let a good friend of mine who's very fast, but lacking some technical skills, ride it on our training rides and it transformed him into a masterful rider (I'm guessing the transformation ends when the bike goes back to Orbea). We've both had the same feeling while riding the Rallon, and the best way I know how to describe it is “fun”.

Now this isn't your standard “OMG best bike ever go buy 2 in case you need a backup” kinda review. And there is one drawback with this bike that Cross Country racers out there will find hard to overlook. It’s heavy, not heavy for a bike with 140mm of travel, but heavy for what you might be used to on a lighter XC bike. I went wild on it and changed parts, wheels, tires to go as low as I could get it within reason and it was still 26.5lbs. It’s not meant to be a World Cup racing machine and can’t be held to the same weight standard as one either I find that when I'm climbing very very steep grades it does feel a little more sluggish than my 22 lb. racer, and on fire road flats and double track you definitely get the feeling that you're on way too much bike for the terrain. The minor pedal bob is barely noticeable on the road though, so it makes for a really comfortable ride no matter where you are.

After 2 months on the Rallon I can say without question that I'm going to buy one. In my opinion the weight penalty you pay for the travel is well worth it for the comfort and confidence on scarier more technical trails. The XC guys may not like the extra few pounds, but hey they are only on their bike for 2 hours or less, ask them again after 5.

___________________________________

Thanks for the review Jesse!

Lastly, don't forget the XXC Magazine World HQ Moving Sale going on right now. All t shirts are just $10.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

So you may have noticed...

2010-08-12T20:40:00.002-04:00

With the help of the fine press folks from TransRockies, earlier in the week I had put up a Stage One recap from the race, with more to follow. But to be honest, I bailed on putting the info on web. It's out there on a bunch of other sites. Many of you who were interested probably already read it, and it just seemed not to fit with where the mag is at right now. XXC has never been a web site, but a site to get the mag. I do hope to have a recap in the next issue and feature much of the action for you viewing pleasure along side a bunch of other cool racing and dirt adventures.

I feel like shit for not posting up the race stuff, but there are indeed lots of things going on right now at XXC World HQ that are making things tough. One is that the office (that would be the spare bedroom in my house) is moving from the Pittsburgh, PA area to Mt. Pleasant Michigan in October due to my wife's job. On top of that I was diagnosed with another DVT in my leg last week. And on top of ALL that there have been numerous glitches with the shipping and handling. Thank you all for being patient with me as I sorted out some of the issues. XXC #8 is really freaking good, I hope you all had a chance to give it a read.

Issue #9 is in the works, and will be out in October some time (much of that depends on when the office/house moves).

By the way right from now (Thursday Aug 12) until Saturday sometime (later if I forget), if you order a new XXC T shirt and you will get a free digital copy of the XXC Dirty Kanza 200 edition. So for $15 you get a swank shirt, 2 stickers, a digital copy of #8 and of the the DK200 edition. Pretty sweet deal*. But then again, I'm the one sellin' it. ;)

Thanks!

Jason Mahokey,
xxcmag.com

*Offer does not apply to $10 close out shirts.

Cool Video

2010-08-11T15:39:00.002-04:00

I stumbled upon some cool videos today. Just in love with the look, color and production of the videos. Very nice work. Check out this one from the Beskidy MTB Trophy stage race in the Beskidy Mountain range in Poland near the borders of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. If XXC did videos THIS is what I would want them to look like. Hell I'd be happy to ever get the mag looking this good. Check out the video and a bunch of others by VELOUR on Vimeo.

Jason Mahokey,
xxcmag.com

Shipping Woes

2010-08-08T19:58:00.002-04:00

It was pointed out to me today that shipping out of the U.S. was jacked up on the Merch page. Eeesh! This S&H crap-ola with e-junkie is going to be the death of me. ha! Seems like MOST of the bugs are worked out. For some reason adding sticker packs to an order messes with the final S&H rate. I have no idea why. So if you live outside the U.S. I would refrain from adding them to an order until I can talk with the customer service peeps at e-junkie.

Big thanks to Oliver in Oz for giving me the heads up on all that. Thanks man!

Jason

WIlderness 101 Photos From A.E. Landes

2010-08-05T07:32:00.003-04:00

XXC #8 Mag contributor and pho-tog extraordinaire Abram Landes has his gallery from the Wilderness 101 up. Check it out. Some really great stuff. GO HERE TO SEE THE PIMP PICS FROM THE 101.

You can of course also see Abram's pics from the Trans-sylvania Epic stage race in Issue #8 of XXC Magazine, available now for $2.25 digital download on the eMag page or in print for $10.40 at MagCloud.com.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Colorado Trail Race Starts Today!!

2010-08-02T07:34:00.003-04:00

With XXC #8 on the digital newsstand (see the eMag page), today attentions can turn to watching the CTR race unfold and planning XXC #9. You can follow the Colorado Trail Race too at trackleaders.com. Lots of XXC contributors in this one: Emily Brock, Ezter Horanyi, Jefe Branham, Dave Harris, Jeff Kerkove... We wish them, and ALL of the this year's racers good luck in this amazing event.

I have only ever ridden parts of the CTR near Durango, and that was damn special to me. I can only imagine the beauty and enormity of riding the whole length of it. Time to go get in the zone by reading Andrew Carney's 2009 CTR experience in Issue #4 of XXC Magazine.

Also see the Colorado Trail Race page HERE.

Jason Mahokey,
XXC Magazine

Race Grub

2010-07-28T13:41:00.000-04:00

GU, Hammer Gel, Perpetuem, Clif Bars, PowerBars, etc., we've all downed more than our share. But there is a whole world of food out there beyond those "designer" foods. What sorts of real foods are your grubbing on at races? PB&J, fruit, candy bars, gummy bears, or as my friend Brad eats- whole turkey legs in his jersey pocket "Dio" style.

Make with the comments and in XXC #9 we'll list some of the top hits and our resident nutritionist Namrita O'Dea will give us some of the pros and cons of some our choice and maybe if recommend few of her own. Until then, keep riding, keep eating, don't bonk.

Coming Soon...

2010-07-24T10:12:00.005-04:00

One or two articles to finish up and XXC #8 will be ready to drop. Here's a look at the cover taken by Abram Landes at this year's Trans-Sylvania Epic stage race here in Pennsylvania.

I hope to have #8 ready this week along with some new t shirts for sale. But the curse of a one man operation is that I can't say for sure, but I can say it will be 100% ready by August 1.

The print version of #8 SHOULD be a few dollars cheaper this go around too. While it is still pricey for magazine, It will only be a few dollars more than many other cycling pubs that have 500% more advertising and are not devoted solely to endurance racing and riding. I hope that folks recognize and understand that when they see the costs. Despite the cover price XXC makes less from the print mag than the $2.25 eMag. Not that you care, I just didn't want folks thinking I was putting them over the periodical barrel.

XXC #7 is also currently available for FREE as part of a MagCloud.com iPad App. Check out the MagCloud.com website for details.

Also in MagCloud/XXC news- All issue of XXC will now be available for purchase from MagCloud.com and shipped world wide. xxcmag.com will no longer be (or need) to sell the mags on the site. So whether you live in New Zealand, the UK, Mexico or South Africa- XXC in print will be available for you.

OK, I have to get back to work.

Jason Mahokey,
xxcmag.com

Getting Dirty In Kanza

2010-07-12T20:36:00.006-04:00

Happy to say we put out our Dirty Kanza 200 Special Edition today. You can read more about why XXC wanted to put out a special issue dedicated to this race by clicking HERE.

Just to be clear, this is not XXC Issue #8. That will be coming in a couple weeks. This was just a want to showcase some great articles from a really cool race. XXC Magazine #8 will have content coming from the Breck 100, UK Solo Nats, The Big Bear 2x12, The Hilly Billy Roubaix, and much more!

We also hope to have some new t shirts coming in the next few weeks too. The "Inspiring Saddle Sores" and "Fun Hurts" shirts are being retired for a bit and are on sale for $10 on the Merch page (sizes are limited). Soon we will have a new simple black T with weathered XXC logo, in Men's and Women's sizes. Stay tuned.

Thanks!

Jason Mahokey,
xxcmag.com

From The Ground Up

2010-07-08T21:40:00.002-04:00

Please check this short film "FromThe Ground Up" by Chris Skogen. Just an amazing short about putting on a gravel road race. Very well done and worth the watch.

From the Ground Up from Chris Skogen on Vimeo.

HBR/Wayne Ultra Double Dip Award!

2010-06-29T07:10:00.005-04:00

So a few posts ago I put out the challenge to the local Ohio/WV/PA enduro freaks that anyone who did the 70+ Hilly Billy Roubaix on Saturday, June 26 and the Wayne Ultra on Sunday the 27th would get some XXC shwag sent their way, and the size of their race ballz talked about here on the XXC Blog. My friend Aaron was convinced that more than a few would be doing the race, so the rule was amended to the best overall time out of the race double dippers. In the end that really wan't to much of an issue.

At the HBR on Saturday Gerry Pflug (Salsa/Pro Bikes/SPK) took the single speed win AND the overall win by 10 minutes over Men's Under 40 winner Justin Pokrivka (Pro Bikes/Cohen & Associates). Both of these guys finished strong and way under the expected winning times. Both also planned to be at Sunday's Wayne Ultra. I assumed that I should get their addresses in preparations for one of them to be the winner of my little challenge of race ballzy-ness.

So after two days of racing the winner of the XXC Magazine's HBR/Wayne Double Dip Your Big Race Ballz Award goes to.....

Ruth Cunningham?

I mean RUTH CUNNINGHAM!!!

Ruth took the #5 spot on the Hilly Billy Podium on Saturday and finished #2 at the Wayne Ultra on Sunday. The pre race "Baller" favorites Justin and Gerry ended up DNFing at the Wayne, as did almost half of the Men's XXC field.

Ruth navigates one of the "roads" of the Hilly Billy Roubaix. Photo by JR Petsko

XXC congratulates our/my long time race friend and Pro Bikes teammate Ruth Cunningham (Pro Bikes) on a killer race weekend and Double Dipping her Big Race (non) Ballz at two killer races in the blazing summer sun and HIIIGGGGHHHH humidity of the tri state area. Some XXC goodies will be heading Ruth's way this week. I will also be amending the name of this contest in the future I suppose. LOL!

At the Wayne Ultra; Ernesto "Solo Goat" Marenchin took the Men's Open win followed by Daniel Evans and Bradley Schmalzer. The top women were Mandi Riddle, Ruth "Big (non) Ballz" Cunningham, and Meredith Eriewine. Full results from the Wayne Ultra can be seen HERE.

Full results from the Hilly Billy can be seen HERE. And look for more coverage and photos from the race in Issue #8 of XXC in late July!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

XXC CONTEST WINNERS!

2010-06-23T13:15:00.005-04:00

First we would like to thank all the folks that entered the XXC 1st Anniversary Giveaway (AKA The I Can't Believe We're Still Around Contest). Anyone that purchased a copy of the mag, eMag or other purchase from XXCMAG.COM from May 18 to June 21 was entered into the contest.

Not to sound like NPR, but... We do want to thank readers for supporting the mag by purchasing an eMag download, t shirt, or print mag. Your generosity it what keeps XXC going and it is much appreciated. OK enough of me sounding like a pledge week hippie, On to the good stuff.

Here are your winners.....

Grand Prize Winner- Chris Skogen won a sweet box of goodies that included an XXC "Inspiring Saddle Sores" T Shirt, XXC sticker pack, 1 pair of Ergon white GA1-S grips, an EOS Bike light from Princeton Tec, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

2nd Place Winner- Doug Kolan won An XXC "Inspiring Saddle Sores" T Shirt, XXC sticker pack, 1 pair of black Ergon GA1-S grips, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

3rd, 4th, and 5th Place Winners- Ben Bronson, Derik George and Tym Burman each will receive an XXC sticker pack, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

Again, thanks for the support and thanks to Ergon, Princeton Tec, Squirt, and ByeKyle for the cool shwag!

XXC Number 8 is in production right now. We will once again be offering a version of the mag in print and on Issuu.com, as well as a jam packed eMag version available for download or with any purchase from XXC. Stay tuned for details on all that AND on an XXC special issue to be released soon.

Jason Mahokey

xxcmag.com

The DNF T Shirt

2010-06-17T08:21:00.008-04:00

I dig the race T shirt. For mid pack schleps like me who aren't in contention for podium cash (if you're lucky) and prizes, it's a nice reminder of finishing a long hard race, and I wear my race T shirts proudly among the masses of folks who view walking to the kitchen for more chips and dip as exercise. Of course I often have to block out how much money, pain and suffering a $4 Hanes Beefy T actually ends up costing me by the end of a race weekend, but it's a nice memento nonetheless.

But what of the DNF Race T? I have acquired more than a few DNF Ts over the years. And have a special closet for them all. In the basement. In the workshop. By my bike. In a pile. The closet is of course also known as the rag pile.

I just can't wear them. I feel like if I did, I would have to add an asterisk*, explaining that I in fact DID NOT FINISH the race who's name and logo appear across my chest and that I am seemingly sporting in a proud manor. That while many others were out racing and pushing on to a finish, I was slinking back to my car alternating between wishing to avoid having to explain to spectators and volunteers why I am not out on course ("don't make eye contact, look straight ahead, don't stop, just keep walking...") and hoping to have explain my situation- "It's not the mud, rain, and 90K still left to race, it's my free hub! See, it doesn't work, look! See for yourself, go ahead, try to pedal. You can't I tell you!"

In other words, for me to be seen with the DNF T-Shirt on doing anything more than painting the house or using it as the most expensive grease rag ever, would just leave me feeling like a dope. A non race finishing dope, who needs to take better care of his bike.

I suppose there are some that can wear the DNF T and use it as motivation. They look down at their chest and say "I failed, but look out next time! I'm gonna go all Chuck Norris on the next race!" If you can, more power to you, I can't. The shirt goes in the rag pile, the number plate goes in the garbage, and 6 to 12 beers later it's like the race never happened.

Now I'm not talking about DNFs from injury, or from extreme circumstances. We all know when we've done our best, raced hard, and just can't do anymore. Or when a race hands us a situation that could be dangerous and is better left for another time, place or someone with less brains. In that case wear that shirt with pride. Put it on knowing you did your best, pushed yourself, and earned it. But sadly we all know when we pull the plug "just 'cause." Or have our bike fail because we do something stupid like not have a free hub serviced in 5 years or use the pressure washer a bit too liberally (not that I know anyone like that or anything). In that case take the number plate off, put that shirt on the pile in the basement, and go buy yourself a couple six packs of good beer.

In the end I guess I would rather have a small pile rags from DNFs than an empty space from a season of Did Not Starts. But I would much rather have a nice pile of race t shirts in a different pile all together... The one by the washer and dryer.

Good luck out there people, there's still lots more riding and racing left in 2010.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

What Next? Reader Survey of Sorts

2010-06-16T08:26:00.003-04:00

At sort of a cross roads with the mag, and would like some reader feedback for direction. Not that I'll be wise enough or foolish enough (depending on your point of view) to take any advice, but asking nonetheless.

How would you like to see XXC Magazine develop in the future? Here are some options. In the future I may do none to all of these...

1. Look into more options in attempts to get the print magazine's cover price down? Please note due to the small audience that reads XXC the mag will most likely never be under $10 per copy. Also note that in the end XXC takes in about the same or less per print copy as we do for digital. And of course $0 for online viewing via Issuu.com.

The only real option to try to get the costs down is increased advertising or decreased quality. Not crazy about loosing quality so scratch that. I also want to avoid the trap of the magazines that I don't want to ever be. Ads, blurbs, ads, a pic or two, ads, done. XXC will always be about the story, the pics, and the design first (as best as I can). Another option would be to attempt to pre-sale with bike and outdoor shops to commit to a quantity of mags and help drive the cover price down.

2. Ditch the basic website that I use and invest in a swankier web site with all the bells, whistles and Flash(y) type goodies of modern day cycling sites? 2b. More web site content and stories, less focus on print or eMag. The fear here is to be just another cycling web site. The web site has never been that important to me. But I do hope to improve it in time.

3. Focus less on developing print and more on developing eMag. Maybe ditch the PDF format, move to hosting on Zinio.com or other eMag hosting site and work more on iPad friendly features like video, audio, and more. Please note given the costs of hosting on sites such as Zinio the cost would increase from $2.25 per eMag to closer to $5.00 or more per mag. To me, I'm not sure that is worth it.

4. Stay as is but, work on more t-shirts and merchandise?

5. Ride off into the sunset and let cycling's major media mags duke it out for sub par coverage of endurance racing and riding? Not really an option for me, but some of you may think otherwise ;)

2010 Trans-Sylvania Epic: Stages 2 thru 7

2010-06-07T21:38:00.003-04:00

Here are the race reports from the 2010 Trans-Sylvania Epic as provided to XXCMAG.COM by Zack Beltran from TSE HQ. Thanks!

STAGE ONE/PROLOGUE (n/a)

TSE STAGE TWO

TSE STAGE THREE

TSE STAGE FOUR

TSE STAGE FIVE

TSE STAGE SIX

TSE STAGE SEVEN

Also huge thanks to Abram Landes for some AMAZING pics from this inaugural week long stage race held right here in Pennsylvania. Abram's pics have been in XXC Mag #4 and recently the "End" page of XXC #7. Fingers crossed we'll see more of his pics, including some from the Trans-Sylvania Epic Stage Race, in the next XXC Magazine!

Hilly Billy Roubaix & A Challenge

2010-06-03T08:47:00.006-04:00

Last summer I started riding my mountain bike on the back roads, farm roads and rail trails near XXC World HQ a LOT more. I even forced my want to put in miles via Western Pennsylvania's shit roads on the readers of XXC #3. I found myself embracing the "shit roads" of my neck of the urban decayed woods rather than shunning them as I would on my narrow tired road bike. The more pot holed filled and gavel covered the better. Sure a cross bike may have been better suited for the rides but when life hands you 29er hard tail and no cross bike... you ride the 29er hard tail.

You may have noticed from the coverage here at XXC over the past year that have also been into the idea of races like the Three Peaks, Iron Cross, and Southern Cross (not too mention all the gravel races!). Races that aren't cross races, aren't mountain bike races, and even though they sometimes contain some road, they sure-as-hell aren't road races! Races that should at least be done on a Cross bike, could be done on a mountain bike (except Three Peaks which forbids their use), and should PROBABLY not be tried on road bike.

Well I was happy to see that this sort of racing also caught the attention of Appalachian Bicycle Racing Association director J.R. Petsko too. So along with some nut kicking road races (if you swing that way), and some eye bleeding cross races, J.R. has come up with the Hilly Billy Roubaix. 60 to 70 miles of pavement, gravel roads and some of the nastiest West Virginia back "road" riding around.
In XXC #6 I promised that a preview of the course was coming. Well, due to race schedules, family schedules and life getting in the way, our pre ride never happened for me. BUT J.R. has busted out some video to show some folks what they have in store for them. Check it out....

Winning times are expected to be in the 5 hour range with slower times reaching the 6 to 7 hour range. There will be fully stocked Aid Stations with a laundry list of foods and drinks to help you along the way, and there will of course be a SAG Wagon for the crushed (or hurt).

Well seasoned endurance vet Gunnar Shogren has ridden the course and has this to say on tire choice: "I would not run smaller than a 30mm tire. If you run a 28mm you will be severely limited on the downhills. They needn't be knobby (for the current conditions) but you will need the volume. I don't think tubulars would be very smart either. I'm planning on 32s." He also said "you kids stay off my lawn!" but I really didn't see what that had to do with the race.

You may even see some folks on mountain bikes! Check out with "friend of XXC" racer Gerry Pflug raced at the recent Fawn Grove Roubaix, near York, PA (Pfoto by Pflug)...

Yep, Gerry rode this set up to a 3rd place finish amongst the road and cross bikes. Check out his report here. But not until you GO REGISTER FOR THE HILLY BILLY ROUBAIX!

THE XXC DOUBLE X CHALLENGE

Don't forget that the day after the Hilly Billy is The RVMBA Wayne Ultra (WVMBA Ultra #2). To which I offer this challenge- If you do BOTH the Hilly Billy AND the Wayne Ultra and FINISH both events* I'll send you a free XXC T shirt of your choice and copy of XXC #8 when published in late July**.

*Just in case there a whole bunch of psychos planning on doing both, it would the first person to e mail me their results from both races, Scratch that last bit, if a bunch do it, it will go to the best combined time.

**Yeah, yeah, I know I'm not exactly giving away fists of cash, but it is free stuff AND bragging rights on the Web!

Now go register for these great events and good luck!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Trans-Sylvania Epic Updates

2010-06-02T08:22:00.004-04:00

XXC has been getting some updates and photos in from the Trans-Sylvania Epic. I've been posting the links to the updates up on the XXC Facebook page, but so as not to exclude folks who can't, shouldn't, wouldn't, or won't see what the Facebook "Likers" (formerly known as "Fans") are seeing I am including the links here too.

CLICK HERE FOR A STAGE II RACE UPDATE

CLICK HERE FOR A STAGE III RACE UPDATE

Above images, including the incredible one of the rider exiting the tunnel in during Stage III are © A.E.Landes Photography.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

24 Hours of Exposure Preview (In Hindsight)

2010-06-01T09:26:00.003-04:00

Back on May 22nd, the UK had its first ever 24 Hour Solo Championships- The 24 Hours of Exposure put on by SIP Events. The Open Men's race was won by Matt Page (Wiggle/Focus) followed by XXC #7 contributor Ant White (Exposure/Skins/KCNC) in 2nd and Josh Ibbett (Syncros Endurance) in 3rd. Josh Ibbett will share his experience at this inaugural race in the next issue of XXC Magazine due out in late July.

In the Open Women's race Rickie Cotter (WXC Mountain Bike Team UK) took the top podium spot with Nicola MacLeod (Adidas Terrex) in 2nd and Jane Chadwick (Chevin Cyclels/Bank & Olufsen) in 3rd.

Full results can be found HERE.

To get a look at what the 24 Hours of Exposure was like (beyond the facts- 24 hours, race, solo, etc., check out this cool preview film that Reset Films did to promote the race. Obviously this is all sort of hindsight now that the race is over.... but it's still cool! Just the chance to see the landscape and trails of the Scottish Borders is worth the look.

www.24hoursolo.co.uk from ResetFilms.co.uk on Vimeo.

I think it's cool to see a growing number of promoters using the quality short films to promote their race and show folks what they can expect to experience at the race. Also check around the Reset Films UK site. There are a number of really cool cycling films to check out.

Look for more on the 24 Hours of Exposure in July from XXC Magazine!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

The Set Up

2010-05-28T08:29:00.003-04:00

Many of you have read Jefe Branham's Arizona Trail 300 piece in XXC #7. If you dug that and want to know a bit more about Jefe's bike set up and gear choices for the race you can CLICK HERE and head over to the super cool Bikepacking.net site.

My favorite line from Jefe's post... "Hope this helps someone get their kit rolling, bikepacking is the sh*t." While I personally have no bikepacking experience, Jefe's AZT300 adventure and enthusiasm sure makes me want to try.

Thanks again to Jefe for sharing his adventure with XXC Magazine.

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

#7 The Not Without Issues Issue

2010-05-26T06:42:00.003-04:00

To much time.

That is my excuse and I'm sticking with it. I took too much time to put together Issue #7 in the hopes of getting in right. Instead, I messed up a few things beyond the standard type-o's and design flaws....

In the end, it's all good (sort of).

This isn't the government, or the corporate world, where problems can be brushed under the carpet amidst hordes of employees and middle management types (no offence to m.m. types). It's just me and some generous contributors pumping out XXC Mag, so when I screw up, I know it was me, and I need to fix it. And it sucks. I'm not the type to not blather on about things so I will come clean with the issues of the Issue.

While the following aren't huge, I want you to know about it...

The eMag download. If you purchased XXC #7 in DL or an item from the Merch page you were sent a link for your DL. The PDF that you received was set up as individual pages for the printer, not for easy viewing on your computer, iPad, etc., I started to send out replacement links and then jacked THAT up. Some folks got it, some didn't. Since I don't want to jam up peoples e mail boxes with MORE stuff, if you purchased the eMag or other Merch and got a mag NOT set up with double page spreads, and want the easier to read version (IMHO), send me an e mail with your order # to xxcmag (at) gmail.com and I will shoot you off a link. Thanks.

Issue #2, Paper

With the need to go from 60 pages to 64 pages for XXC #7 I failed to realized that this would cause MagCloud to switch paper from heavier 80 pound stock to 60 pound. I was very disappointed to say the least. It still looks great, it just doesn't have the nice heavy "feel" that issues #5 and #6 had. I may work to "edit" the mag to 60 pages for an option for folks in the future via MagCloud, but I will most likely just live with my mistake(?) of too much content on this one and make note of the page limit for Issue #8.

Stickers- This is no big deal since they are due in HQ today, but I ran out of logo stickers and this has delayed the shipment of some of the print issues ordered from xxcmag.com. Those delayed mags SHOULD ship today unless FedEX throws a stick in my spokes.

Lastly, I sold out the first shipment print editions. I was hesitant to order more since I over ordered Issue #6, but am going to go ahead and order more today. So expect them in to ship late next week. The advantage to ordering from XXC rather than MagCloud is International shipping for readers outside of the U.S./Canada/U.K., Free download of XXC #7 and a couple stickers. The mag is the same.

Don't forget the contest going on NOW! Anyone that orders a download, mag or T until June 21st gets entered into the XXC 1st Anniversary Giveaway, brought to you by XXC, ByeKyle, Squirt Lube, Princeton Tec and Ergon.

As always thanks for supporting XXC Magazine. I promise LESS "issues" with the NEXT Issue! (due in July!).

Jason Mahokey,
XXC Magazine

Upcoming Events In The XXC Mag Area

2010-05-21T13:35:00.009-04:00

Just a reminder about some endurance races that are coming up close to home here in the WV, Ohio, PA area in the coming month..

Starting May 30th is the Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic. A week of racing on some of the most kick ass trails in Pennsylvania. If you didn't see the preview in XXC #6, I first ask you WHY THE HELL NOT? Then I once again give you a preview of the race, right here....

Open publication - Free publishing - More endurance

Registration is closed, but if you click here you can get a look at the list of racers who will be throwing down at this amazing event. Including the media trash talking, jersey pimping, single speed racing head Dick/lone Dick, of Team Dicky- Rich Dillen. Check out his blog for what will surely be a month to 3 months of hilarious obsessing, lamenting, and regretting about the race. ;)

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The Kenda Mohican 100 is on June 5th. XXC will have a few racers there, including myself doing the 100K course this year. Mohican is always a good time with some great trails. Of course if it rains it could suck. Buy hey, that will just make it more epic, right?

The Big Bear 2 x 12 is coming up on June 12. By no means a replacement for the 24 Hours of Big Bear, but Mark Schooley of Bib Bear Campland still has a cool way for us to get out on the bike for a day. Free camping, music and micro beer tasting is included for all racers. Not to mention a kick ass $1,000 first prize for the first place male, female, co-ed, and single speed open class Duo teams. My math skills aren't great, but that looks a lot like $4K is prize cash-eesh. Yikes!

To download a PDF entry form CLICK HERE .
To download a PDF with more info and schedule, CLICK HERE.

There surely will be some discussions going down about the future of the 24 Hours of Big Bear, so while you're there let the folks know what needs to happen for the 24oBB to return next year. My thoughts (as if you care)? I think the cost needs cut dramatically. Don't try to make money off of it. Just try to make it a killer event and I think the money will come in time. Not 5 or 6 figures, retire to Florida come, but it will come. Ditch the "real time scoring" go with the killer electronic timing you get at events like The Leesburg Bakers Dozen. Maybe charge a small fee for camping at the venue, to help with clean up and port-O-potties and invite food vendors in to sell. Focus marketing dollars on the North East, Mid Atlantic region. There are wayyyyy too many great events to pump money into advertising it world wide. Racers are NOT going to drive thousands of miles to do a 24 Hour event when they can do one in their back yard. The trails at Big Bear are great! The event could be huge. But it will NEVER be huge so long as it costs over $300 to race Solo. The max cost for an individual shoudn't get over $150 for sure. The racers will come, just not without change. Oh and lastly, ditch that damn baton! What a pain in the ass. LOL!

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Then the VERY next day, kick ass endurance race promoter Chris Scott is putting on the Stoopid 50 out in State College, PA. 50 miles of rocks and single track to put a smile on your face, and surely a rattle snake or two to scare the bajeeezus out of you. For more info and to register head over to Bikereg.com.

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June 26 brings the Appalachian Bicycle Racing Association's Hilly Billy Roubaix in Morgantown. This one is gonna be a tough one. Sort of like Iron Cross but in June. In West Virginia, on 61 miles of gravel, muddy, dirty, pot holed filled, nasty, let's just call them plain shitty roads. Leave your road bike at home, and bring your cross rig. Or if you're like me, bring your mountain bike 'cause you don't have a damn 'cross bike and would probably just crash it anyway. Check out bikereg.com to register and for more information.

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Also coming up on June 27 is WVMBA Ultra #2- The Wayne Ultra 45 mile backcountry epic put on by the River Vally Mountain Bike Association over in Marietta, OH. You DID see the ad in the eMag right? You clicked on it, right? You're going to race it, right? This a great race on some killer trails. I did this race last year, and it hurt. But in a good way. Like the Mohican 100, you will leave muttering "I thought Ohio was supposed to be flat???"

XXC plans to be at least a few of these events in some form or another. Whether it be getting stomped on the race course or slinging t shirts and mags. So look for the black and gray team kits of XXC or the black and white banner. Stop by an say hello. Unless you're going to hurl and insult or chuck a beer can at me. Then please don't.

Good luck to the folks racin'!!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

It's Out There

2010-05-18T20:47:00.002-04:00

XXC #7 hit the digital news stand today. Hope you all dig it. Lots of good stuff in it from all over the world! You will notice there are a few more advertisements in this one. Some may not dig that, but I think MANY folks will dig the fact that because of the ads XXC is once again available to preview/read for FREE online.

Open publication - Free publishing - More mountain bike

Very happy to be able to share the mag again. Sure I hope folks will want to purchase a download or 800, or pick up a t shirt or two, but if they don't I'll be happy to know that more folks are reading about the incredible endurance events that are going down all over the world, and seeing the talented writing and photos that are in the mag.

While I can't force anyone to buy the mag, I do hope you all will be encouraged by the kick ass contest that is going on now though June 21, 2010. You can check out yesterday's blog post for details. basically you buy a download, shirt, sticker, etc., and your e mail will be entered into a random drawing to win some sweet prizes from our advertisers. Check it!

As always thanks to all the folks that contributed their time and talent to XXC #7. Which each issue we get closer to world domination. Thanks for the help!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

XXC #7 and a contest coming soon!

2010-05-17T11:59:00.006-04:00

XXC #7 will be available soon, by the end of the week if all goes according to plan.

Above is a sneak peak of #7's cover. I couldn't get the muddy epicness of this year's Cohutta 100 IN the mag, but I was able to get it ON the cover with a great photo of racer Andy Applegate. The original/pre PS photo was taken by Blue Basin Photography. You can see a ton more of their photos from Cohutta by clicking HERE.

Pretty anxious to get #7 out. The is lots of great stuff from all over the world in it! Plus we have some cool promos going on, including the XXC Magazine "We Can't Believe We're Still Around" 1st Anniversary Contest.

When you purchase a download of XXC #7 or purchase an item from the Merch page your e mail address will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of 5 great gift packs! Check it out...

1st Place Grand Prize- XXC "Inspiring Saddle Sores" T Shirt, XXC sticker pack, 1 pair of team green Ergon GX grips (white GA1-S grips available upon request from winner), EOS Bike light from Princeton Tec, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

2nd Place Prize- XXC "Inspiring Saddle Sores" T Shirt, XXC sticker pack, 1 pair of black Ergon GA1-S grips, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

3rd, 4th, and 5th Place Winners- XXC sticker pack, 2 bottles of Squirt lube, and a ByeKyle Simple Strap.

*Contest will start upon publication of XXC #7. Drawing will be held June 21, 2010.

We have some other cool things going down too, but info on those items will have to wait. I STILL need to finish the damn mag! LOL!

Stay tuned, the mag should be hitting the digital shelves later this week (fingers crossed), with the print edition to be in stock soon after.

- Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

America's Best To Take On The Trans-Sylvania Epic

2010-05-13T06:57:00.003-04:00

AMERICA'S BEST TO TAKE ON THE TRANS-SYLVANIA EPIC,
AMERICA'S LONGEST MOUNTAIN BIKE STAGE RACE

STATE COLLEGE - The Trans-Sylvania Epic, the longest mountain bike stage race experience in the USA offering seven days in the mountain bike paradise that is the Alleghenies region of Pennsylvania, is attracting the most competitive field of endurance racers to yet assemble for an MTB stage race in North America.

Mountain bike luminaries such as Cannondale Factory Racing's Jeremiah Bishop and WTB's Mark Weir alongside PAValleys.com's National 24 Hour Solo Series Champions Bradon Draugulis ('09) and Rob Lichtenwalner ('07/'08); perennial NUE series contenders Christian Tanguy and Harlan Price from Team CF as well as endurance race stalwart Evan Plews and top US Ruta finisher Alex Grant (Cannondale) are some of the stars who will be battling it out daily with a slate of regional stars and local legends for the right to wear the Pactimo TSE Leader's Jersey. The women's entrants are just as powerful with multiple time World 24 Champ, Rebecca Rusch (Specialized), women's 2009 Iron Cross Champion Selene Yeager and her Team CF mates Nikki Thiemann and Kristin Gavin, PAValleys.com's Carolyn Popovich and Karen Potter (MTBRaceNews.com) amongst those ripping each other apart daily in pursuit of their own Pactimo leader's jersey at the TSE.

TSE director Mike Kuhn noted, "The quality of the racers taking part in our first year is fantastic; there hasn't been a field like this assembled for a mountain bike race in the region in a long time." He added, "It's not just elite racers. We have people coming because they see Trans-Sylvania as a perfect mountain bike vacation or as an incredible challenge. We can't wait to show mountain bike enthusiasts and racers from across North America just how good the riding is in Pennsylvania as this event unfolds."

"This is a great opportunity to meet and interact with some of the nation's best racers," added director Ray Adams. "If you love mountain biking you'll have a whole week to ride incredible trails and compare notes with some of the finest riders around the bonfire each evening. You're not going to find this anywhere else. It's especially true this first year as we set the stage for what will become at least eastern North America's don't miss mountain bike experience. Yes, seven days of great trail riding in a row is not easy, but it is absolutely possible for a lot of riders. What's more, the sense of accomplishment from riding seven back to back days is beyond words. Everyone should - and can - experience that."

When asked why he is choosing TSE over the multitude of of stage races out there; CFRs Bishop replied, "It's about riding killer technical single track. Some places have good scenery and some good trails but nothing is like the raw rocks roots and deep forest of the east coast single track in PA. Riding in the state college area is world class and with solid promotion back round the race is sure to be well run and a lot of fun." He continued, "TSE is going to be demanding, in fact its probably the longest stage race in North America; but that is going to make for an incredible experience. If the other trails are like what I have ridden, its going to rock!"

Specialized's three time Women's World 24 Hour Solo Champ Rebecca Rusch commented on TSE, "I love mountain bike stage races because the offer the opportunity to really see the riding an area has to offer. For me 7 days in a row of hard racing is a perfect training block and sort of my own PA boot camp. I have not ridden out East much and from what I hear, this place offers some of the best single track in the world. The TSE jumped out at me because of the reputation of the race directors, the chance to ride out East and the time of year of the event." Her husband Greg Martin (Club Ride Apparel), owner of two 24 Hr Solo Singlespeed World Titles added, " I'm really looking forward to spending a full week riding some of the beautiful trails that PA has to offer. Having grown up in Virginia and now living out west, I really miss the technical trails that the east coast is famous for. This is going to be a super fun race!"

WTB's legendary Mark Weir offered up a slightly different motivation for attending, "Last time I was in PA I got schooled by a bunch of round face tough guys. This race looks like a great way to find some redemption." Weir seems to have his eye on one competitor in particular adding, "Harlan you and your 29”s of wheel better look out. Had about enough of you buddy."

Based out of the expansive Seven Mountain Scout Camp near State College, PA, the Trans-Sylvania Epic offers 7 days of spectacular trails in some of the most remote riding in Pennsylvania through the spectacular Allegheny mountains. Through the course of the 7 days the participants will explore over 250 miles of mountain bike heaven and just scratch the surface of the trails and paths in this part of PA. The event will challenge riders physically and mentally but reward them with an experience they'll never forget. Running May 30-June 5, 2010, more information about Trans-Sylvania at www.TransSylvaniaEpic.com .

Big Bear 4 x 24 = 2 x12 and $1,000!!

2010-05-07T16:02:00.007-04:00

Back in March XXC reported that race director Mark Schooley was planning on saving the shattered remains of the 24 Hours of Big Bear with a the Big Bear 4 x 24 race. A four lap race of 24 miles each with solos, duos and sport class 4 person teams. Well after some thinkin' and head scratchin' the format has been changed to The Big Bear 2 x 12 on Saturday, June 12, 2010 @ 10:00 a.m. at Big Bear Lake Camplands in W.V.. With a SWEET cash payout for the winning Open class teams- $1,000!!!

Expert Duo teams will ride 6 laps (3 x 12.8 mile per racer) and Sport Duo teams will race 4 laps (2 x 12.8 mile laps per racer). Entry is $75 for Open Classes and $65 for Sport Classes. License Required: WVMBA membership or $5 one day WVMBA membership

There are a BUNCH of classes to choose from:

Duo male open, Duo female open, Duo coed open, Duo single speed, Duo male sport, Duo female sport, Duo male vet sport 35+, Duo female vet sport 35+, Duo male masters sport 45+, Duo Clydesdale (200+ lbs each)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COMPLETE INFORMATION

AND REGISTRATION FORMS.

By the way, if you are feeling spanky, and don't mind paying $150, I have a pretty good feeling no one would say anything if you registered as a Duo and raced Solo. In 1996 John Stamstad completed the first Solo attempt of the 24 Hours of Canaan by using four variations of his name to register. Just sayin'.

GOOD LUCK!

Black Mountains 3 Day

2010-04-24T09:06:00.007-04:00

It seems like the UK, like the U.S., is getting more and more endurance events and stage races. This summer's Black Mountains 3 Day race looks to be a super cool new one. If you're from the UK or Europe, this looks like it could be damn cool. Hell, it even looks like it might be a cool adventure if you're from this side of the pond, have some extra dough in the piggy, a taste for epic racing and some bangers and mash.

The trip to the Brecon Beacons alone would be worth it! Now if I could just get that damn Supergrass song out of my head, it would be all good!

Below is some info that I got from my UK based XXC Mag Operative- Paul (International Man of Mystery and kick ass endurance racer).

How does three days of testing yourself in the saddle with rocky descents, huge climbs and Welsh forest riding sound? Well it’s going to exceed all expectations, so clear some space in your summer diary for the Black Mountains 3 Day.

Black Mountains 3 Day is a 3 day mountain bike stage endurance event running from 30 July – 1 August 2010. Set in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park of South Wales, it will be a tough but rewarding ride through unforgiving terrains and tough technical trails.

To reward all your hard work during the day everything else is going to be as comfortable as possible. The Black Mountains 3 Day is a fully serviced event providing hot showers, massages, tailored nutrition and lovely tented villages to rest your exhausted body. There will also be mechanics and bike wash facilities on hand so your bike's as well cared for as you.

Brecon Beacons National Park is renowned for its incredible scenery and amazing sense of remoteness and it's popular with walkers and riders. Over the 3 days you'll be experiencing all the best aspects of riding in the National Park, and will be passing through a number of friendly local communities.

So get involved with this incredible experience, whether you are riding alone or with a buddy and whether you are a seasoned stage racer or a first timer. We've also got packages for family and friends to come along and support the riders, so you don't have to suffer alone.

Official registration is now open on a first come first served basis and you can register HERE.

Be part of a mountain biking event that is bound to become legendary. Visit blackmountains3day.co.uk for more information. Or check out the Bearded Man blog for updated news about routes, suppliers and the website.

General information about the event

• Day 1 - 101kms, Day 2 - 91kms and Day 3 - 88kms

• More than 8,000 metres climbing over the three days!

• Very challenging terrain in the dry – if its wet then quadruple the challenge (Yikes! -Edit)

• Expect to carry your bike up very steep ascents and unbelievably on a descent or two

• Expect a mix of single track, jeep track, fire road, natural tracks and a tiny bit of farm road (this is needed to link sections together)

• All routes will be marked and signed. There will also be .GPX files available a week before the event.

• All routes will be marshaled and there will be full medical support pre, during and post each day's ride

• Feed stations stocking Torq products will be available on each stage

General information about the tented village

• Tents will be supplied and erected by Bearded Man on a shared basis (3 man tents for 2 people) – there is a single supplement available

• Food (breakfasts and dinners) will be supplied by the legendary Drop Off Café. Lunches will be available to buy at the tented village after the day's riding. Lunch will be supplied by the local communities and will include food such as BBQ, sandwiches, cakes etc.

• Optional extras will be available including massages and there will be a bike maintenance team that charge standard rates to fix bikes.

• To get the most out of the day 2 route, the tented village will remain in the same place for the second and third evening.

Leesburg Bakers Dozen Photos

2010-04-18T14:05:00.004-04:00

I should have about 40+ photos from the 2010 Leesburg Bakers Dozen up sometime soon. Maybe Monday. Due to some mechanicals and ensuing frustration my race was not going great, so I took the time to stop, smell the honeysuckle and take some pics of some of the folks out there killing it at this year's event. The LBD is always a great time, congrats to all the racers on a fine day on the trails.

In this photo: 2nd place solo/friend/XXC rider Brad Schmalzer enjoys one of his 20 laps on Saturday.

Stay tuned for pics... EDIT: HERE YOU GO

Jason Mahokey
XXC Magazine

Ride The Divide Movie Info

2010-04-14T15:58:00.004-04:00

More info about the movie Ride The Divide direct from the RTD folks. Check it...

________________________________

The much anticipated film about the longest mountain bike race on earth is ready for release. The film was shot in 2008 and recounts three Divide Racers experiences with Rocky Mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to pedal from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border.

Ride The Divide just won Best Adventure Film at the Vail Film Festival and will be screening at the Newport Beach Film Festival April 29th. Here is an interview from the fest at plumtv.com.

Check out the website for other screening dates and to pre-order the DVD.

Please help us spread the word:

If you pre-ordered the DVD, let your friends know about it - Facebook.com/RideTheDivide
If you saw a show and want to report, let your Tweeps know - T witter.com/RideTheDivide

Thanks everyone for your support and we hope you get to see the film soon!

________________________________

You know how Star Wars geeks get all dressed up in costume to go to the theater to see the movies when they are released. I would totally do that for this movies. Except I'd show up with a fully loaded mountain bike and NOT in a Emperor Palpatine costume. Just sayin', I'm pretty excited to see this movie and am a total geek about it. I too would also love to hear some view reactions. If you see it, let us know on the XXC Facebook page. Thanks!

Random Bits Of XXCisness

2010-03-23T17:58:00.003-04:00

Time for some totally random bits of XXCishness going on at XXC HQ and around the globe.

First- The Trans-Sylvania Epic Race is one of the premiere events on the east coast this year, if not THE premiere event with Big Bear in the tank! If you missed the preview of the race in XXC #6 you can check it out for FREE right here!

CLICKY TO MAKE BIGGIE N'AT

Speaking of Big Bear and all of it's in the tankness.... As mentioned here on the blog a couple weeks ago the Big Bear 4x24 race will be going down on the fine trails of Big Bear that weekend. Registration details are still coming in. Stay tuned to XXCMAG.COM and to iPlayoutside.com for more information.

Also keep an eye on the 24 Hours of Creek To Peak, ALSO taking place in West Virginia on June 12. One race goes away and two more in the same state pop up. Gotta love that! Not to mention the folks from the Cheese & Beer State are not one to roll over and die after their 24 was tanked via GG- The 24 Hours of Nine Mile is gone, but The Wausau 24 is here!! Check out their Facebook page for more info.

SELF PIMPING (and no you will not go blind from that)... XXC #6 is still available digital form for $2.99 at xxcmag.com, and in print for $13.50 (+ s/h) at XXCMAG.COM. And remember, if you purchase the print from XXC you get the digital copy and two XXC stickers too! If you don't need/want those, the mag can purchased for $15.00 at MagCloud.com ($16.40 with shipping). And if you want #5 it's only $1.99 on the site.

There is only about a week left in the XXC eMag's Downloads for U23s Program. That is to say that up until April 1st 2010, $1.00 from every digital download will benefit the NICA’s Texas High School Mountain Bike Racing League and the Mid Atlantic region’s Fast Forward Developmental Team.

As of now we have close to $90 to donate to these fine programs that get high school kids and juniors hooked on the the crack that IS mountain bike racing. SO giddy up before April 1 if you want to do your part to get a kid hooked on the good stuff. PURCHASE HERE!

Lastly, XXC #7 is already in the works with two stories pretty much done. XXC #7 will once again prove how small the world is now and how if you put a big ass race anywhere on earth, SOMEONE will show up and race it. Also happy to say there are some more changes coming to XXC for the next issue and it's all good baby!

Well, spring is in the air, so get out there and enjoy.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Some "Killer" Gravel Approaches

2010-03-16T19:26:00.000-04:00

Many a race on the east coast of the U.S. has been canceled or rescheduled due to do weather this winter and early spring. But on the map, if you moved to the left and up, you'll find yourself in Michigan. Home of snow, ice and bitter temps for 10 months of the year. At least I think that's true? Yeah, it's true I saw it on the Internet. Yeah, on the Internet, on Danielle Musto's blog, where 90% of all photos on her blog have her in layers and layers of wool and ski goggles to ride! Anyway, enough of my "facts" about Michigan, and on to a REAL fact about Michigan- The Barry Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race.

The Barry-Roubaix race KNOWS that there very well there could be ice, snow, slush and bitter winds. But I would be willing to bet that the 400+ cycling mad upper mid west racers will not have to worry about a cancellation due to snow and ice. Some MIGHT actually be disappointed if there's not! On the bright side, it could be dry and sunny! Then racers will ONLY have to deal with racing 65 miles and 2,200' of climbing (depending on class), on gravel roads. Either way, it will hurt jusssst a bit.

I mean just look at the name of the race. Just to be safe they add the word "killer" to the title. The word Roubaix is usually enough for most races to convey that it just might suck in a nasty ass weather, beat you up Paris-Roubaix sort of way. If a race director adds a word like "killer" in there, well that is their way of putting a second exclamation mark at the end of the phrase "Don't bitch to me that it was too tough, you were warned!!" LOL!

The Barry-Roubaix is approaching quickly and going down on March 27th in Middleville, MI. There is no field limit and a variety of classes to choose from. Elite men and women will be racing 65 miles for a sweet $350 1st place prize (2nd $250, 3rd $150). Damn cool considering Elite entries are only $45!

Very sweet limited edition hand printed race poster designed by Dan Clark.
Available for purchase- Check out Barry-Roubaix.com

For more information check out barry-roubaix.com and keep an eye on xxcmag.com, you just might see some coverage in the digital (or print!) pages of XXC in the coming weeks!

Good luck to the folks who will be racing this one.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

The Big Bear 4 x24

2010-03-13T09:41:00.001-05:00

It's not the Twenty-Four Hours of Big Bear. It's not the National Championships, and it's very much NOT a Granny Gear production. It IS The Big Bear 4 x 24, potentially one of the toughest (almost?) 100 mile races in the country!

Hosted by Big Bear Lake Camplands, the BB-4x24 will be a tough as hell, grass roots epic with a twist. Along with solo racers completing four 24 (maybe 25) mile technical single track loops, there will be two other class options to choose from! Experts will race as Duo teams in age brackets, completing two laps each. Sport Classes will race as 4 person teams and complete one lap each.

XXC Mag spoke with race director Mark Schooley on March 12th and he had this to say about the race-

"The race fees will be significantly less than the 24-hours and I would like to continue to have a festival atmosphere. Maybe live music in the evening as most racing will be over by nightfall. It will be a grass roots type of event with the venue and camping on the mountain. It will start early Saturday morning about 8:00. The 100 mile option may make this event one of the toughest in the country! I have a lot of details to work out but, I am positioned to smoothly continue an ultra type event at Big Bear."

There will be more information coming for sure, and XXC will post it as we get it. For me personally, I'm digging the vibe of this event and I believe that Mark is well on his way to filling the void that Granny Gear left in the east coast's early summer endurance schedule. Looks like he's approaching it the right way too. XXC wishes Mark the best of luck in his attempts at putting together and epic race on such short notice, and hopes to be in Bruceton Mills to throw down some laps in early June.

Stay tuned for more information....

Jason Mahokey,
XXC Magazine

The Ouachita Challenge Approaches

2010-03-02T18:56:00.000-05:00

The 60 mile Ouachita Challenge is coming fast and going down on Sunday, March 27th in Oden, Arkansas. While last year's race offered a 60 and 80 mile route, this year it will be just a 60 miler.

To get an idea of some times we might be seeing this years , take a look at the winning times in the 60 miler from 2009...

[Geared Men] Jeff Kerkove- 4:50:29
[Single Speed] Ben Shockey (Vassago Cycles)- 5:44:50
[Geared Women] Sonya Lonney (Topeak/Ergon)- 5:39.29

With there being no 80 miler, the sold out field will be packed and stacked. Can't wait to see more what goes down. To see how things went down last year take a look at some of these videos...

Part One:

Part Two:

Damn, with the trails around XXC World HQ still covered snow and ice, it's nice see some folks racing and riding on dirt!

Look for more on Ouachita 2010 in the weeks ahead on xxcmag.com

Jason
xxcmag.com

Post Publish Update

2010-03-01T20:33:00.000-05:00

Ah the week after... Hopefully many of your are reading XXC #6 and enjoying it. For me it's time to get to the business of the business, and ship some goods. If you ordered a shirt in the past few days, they are on the way! Large shirts sold fast and only a couple remain, BUT FEAR NOT! The Lord of The Lumens (or Bob) is printing some as we speak (type, whatever) and will be ready for pick up in a day or two. Printed mags are en route to XXC World HQ and will ship as soon as I get my mitz on them.

Speaking of t shirts I did up some new designs that I hope to print this spring.
This is one of them...

Distressed logo on what I HOPE will be an olive greenish or green heather shirt. Done did gray, red, and black, so it might be time for something different. Plus like I told my wife "green makes my eyes 'pop'." (That's a joke). I'll probably have another version that's not so "long and hard" as well. I'll let you know if/when they become available. Until then re stocked "Fun Hurts" Ts in heather grey and "Saddle Sores" in red, are available on the site.

Again, big thanks to all the folks who have checked out #6 already. Thanks for spreading the endurance love world wide. And one more huge shout out to all the contributors of issue #6. Your rock!

I have some video and stuff to post, but I'm gonna hold off on that just 'cause.

Jason
xxcmag.com

INTERVIEW: Cyclingdirt.org's Colt McElwaine

2010-02-25T13:12:00.000-05:00

In the recent issue of XXC Mag, I wrote a piece called In Search of Porn. Sadly (or fortunatly?) it was about what it takes to get in the mood for riding on the trainer, and how for me it take some kick ass race videos.

One of the major players in today's bike racing porn industry, err, maybe I'll just call it "race coverage," and video race coverage, is Cyclingdirt.org's Colt McElwaine. As a follow up to my article, Colt was kind enough to answer few questions about the state of mountain bike coverage, how Cyclingdirt.org came to be and where it's going. I hope you enjoy.

How and when did Cyclingdirt.org come to be?

Behind Cycling, my second favorite sport is Running. In the Track and Field world it's not unusual to have a video from the race online the night of the meet. In November of 2008 I was racing 'Cross in Long Island, NY the weekend of the NCAA Cross Country Running National Championships and found myself sitting in the hotel room for hours at night watching video online from the race and interviews with the runners. Seeing these elite athletes talk casually about their races to a friend with a video camera made me feel like I was a part of this tight-knit community. It turned me into that much more of a fan of the sport. The next day after the 'cross race, while hanging around sharing stories from our races, I wished we had the type of video coverage that so many other sports enjoyed. Five days later I bought a video camera. Six days later I turned it on for the first time and filmed my first race. A week after that I was on a plane to Europe to film the Cyclocross World Championships. It's been non stop ever since. This was the first video-

You've covered a lot of racing, in some pretty cool places, do you have a favorite, or one that stands out?

Traveling is the best and worst part of my job. The things that stand out most are usually the obstacles that got in the way. Things like getting in to a small Canadian mountain town at 2am and having to find WiFi and a place to sleep (in that order.) The best location this past year was Costa Rica during La Ruta. The race videos hopefully show how beautiful that place is. And getting to surf in the Caribbean Sea on the off days didn't hurt.
There have been a lot of great interviews on the site too. Do you have any favorites?

To be honest, I never really watch the interviews after I record them. For me, they tend to bleed together by athlete and not so much stand out as one particular interview. Georgia Gould, Barry Wicks, Jeremy Powers, Kathy Sherwin, and Adam Myerson are a couple of my favorites to talk to. The most viewed interview all time is the Emily Batty Intro.

What are some of your plans for cyclingdirt.org in 2010?

Like any first year business, 2009 was all about finding out what works. In 2010, we'll still be at the best races around the world, but there will be an added emphasis on the mountain bike community as opposed to just the mountain bike racing community. We'll also be at a few less XC races and a couple more 100 milers, 12/24's, and stage races. The biggest change will be the ability to broadcast live remotely from anywhere in the world. We debuted the technology at Cyclocross Nationals this year and got a great response. I'm excited to bring live video coverage to the mountain bike scene this season.

Where do you see the site in the future?

We have big plans for the future of the company. Off-road cycling on TV is a thing of the past. We can do so much more for the sport with the power of the internet and the willingness of it's fans to adapt to the new media. With the Cyclingdirt Network, the future won't be just Cyclingdirt, but a network of hundreds of sites with the same goal and same technology to grow the sport. We have the technology to have millions of videos from every race around the world. The future is finding more people with video cameras.

You're around so much racing, do you think the U.S. scene is getting stronger, and what do you think it will take for it to keep growing and do you see sites like yours playing a part in its growth?

The U.S. scene is absolutely getting stronger. Aside from best ever international results this year, nearly every race I was at was experiencing increased ammeter attendance from the years prior. As far as what it will take to keep growing, that's a long list. I think the most important thing for the sport as a whole is the emphasis on hosting FUN events. It's not enough to mark the course and get the categories off on time. There needs to be barbecues, and raffles, and bike limbo. The people who want to take it seriously still can, but most people just want to ride hard for a couple hours then sit around drinking beer with their friends. I hope my site can play a part by, if nothing else, showing people what they're missing. I dare you to watch the race videos from La Ruta and tell me that doesn't make you want to book your tickets.

Thanks Colt!

Big thanks to Colt and to Cyclingdirt.org for their continuing coverage of XC, Cross, and XXC racing. In fact they just put some stuff up from The 24 Hours In The Old Pueblo. Check it out!

Fast Forward U23 Team Auction

2010-02-19T15:57:00.000-05:00

XXC Magazine got this e mail in from Issue #5 contributor Jake Davidson...

The Fast Forward Racing Junior/U23 Development Team brings together the best U23 and Junior mountain bike racers in the Mid Atlantic Region. In its short existence, the team has garnered multiple medals at national championships, as well as major races across the country

In order to raise money for the 2010 season, we're auctioning off some schwag and some other choice goodies. All auctions can be found on eBay by clicking HERE.

We hope you can take some time to view our auctions and bid on any products that interest you.

I know more than than a few folks on the team, and I have to say it's great to see their dedication and the results they're putting up, when many kids their age are content with a bag of Doritos (Snack Strong? Serisoulsy??) and an X-Box. LOL!

Let the bidding continue... I just spied a cap I want!

Jason
xxcmag.com

Quick Updates Of Randomness

2010-02-18T19:00:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update about the coming issue.

Season II, Issue I will drop in few days or so (give or take 7 to 10), so keep an eye out. The mag will be available to view online, download to your PC or the Apple iPad that you KNOW you want! Who knows, maybe we'll go all Radiohead on the digital version?? ;) Not sure, what I am sure is I want the Gospel according to how freaking cool endurance racing is, out to as many peeps as posible!!

The mag will also be AVAILABLE IN PRINT!! Very excited about the print version. A few folks were able to get their hands on Issue #5 in print, and it got some very good response. I think the word is... STOKED!!!

The cost for printing short runs is NOT cheap, but the end result is pretty damn sweet. I would not put a mag out that I wouldn't pay for myself. And I speak the truth when I say I would pay for this mag (if I wasn't lucky enough to help create it!).

The goal of XXC has always been to showcase the sport of endurance mountain biking, and create a product that people want to keep, and look at more than once. There are billion magazines out there to read a blurb, see a bunch of ads and throw away. I want folks to pick up issue 2.1 a year from now and want to read it again.

Printed copies will be for sale direct from xxcmag.com, and will be shipped world wide!! Live in the Congo?? No problem, XXC will find you! Purchases via the site will be through PayPal. If you hate PayPal, or have some sort of conspiracy theory of sorts about them, you should be able to purchase through MagCloud.com as well, but expect to pay few bucks more (not our fault), and shipping is only available to US, Canada, and the UK. Again, not our fault. Plus ordering through the site will offer you the chance to pick up a swank new t shirt (or at least different looking) to wear whilst you read the new issue. LOL!

The new t shirts were picked up today from Bob B., AKA Lord of The Lumens/His Royal PORCness, and should be on the site in a day or two, so look for that too! Sizes will range from Small to XXL. The "Fun Hurts" shirt is now available in Titanium Grey/New Tire Black (heather and black) and the "Saddle Sores" shirt is in Bloody Scab Red/Hot Goth Girl Black (that would be red and black.)

To all the folks that ordered XXC kits... they should be in stock in about two weeks, and will ship from XXC HQ ASAP.

Kicking around the idea of a contest. The first racer photographed on a legit endurance race podium (1st, 2nd or 3rd place) in an XXCMAG.COM kit or t shirt, will receive printed copies of each issue throughout Season II, as they become available. Roughly a $60+ value give or take some shipping, handling, beer money, and what not. We're still in the process of fine tuning the fine print on that one, but look for details in the near future.

Well that's about it right now. The 2010 racing has started, and 2.1 is right around the corner. I want to blow shit up this season with XXC. I hope you'll join me.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Win The House of Pua!!

2010-02-05T18:07:00.000-05:00

Just saw this bit of news out on the Net... Female endurance Pro Pua Sawicki is setting her sights on the 2012 Olympics. To do so she needs to gather a boat load of UCI points, and race her ass off in Europe in the future. Pua is a freaking ELITE female athlete and has proved herself as such time and time again, but THIS time she means business!

As if it wasn't pretty apparent, racing in Europe costs some jing. To acquire said "jing", Pua and her husband Ron are raffling off what was their "Palace." Rather than read my blathering on about the whole thing, just go to teammata.com and find out how to win a sweet camper and truck AND help one bad ass chicky work her way towards the '12 Olympics!

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

P.S.- the photo of Pua was found on the Net. I have NO idea where it came from. If you took it and are jacked off, I'll take it down, if you took it and want credit let me know, if you took it and don't care... well thanks. If you took it ans want to sue me... well, I really don't have any cash, so how 'bout we just take it down? :)

Announcing- The Chequamegon 100

2010-02-04T16:22:00.000-05:00

This in from Tim Krueger @ The Chequamegon 100...

We are very pleased to announce, another great addition to the assemblage of midwestern endurance events, the Chequamagon 100. One Hundred miles of sweet northern Wisconsin dirt, the great majority of it on singletrack, and the first endurance event to be held on the great CAMBA system trails.

Based on the self-supported ethos that has gained popularity with other events, the Chequamegon 100 will continue the tradition of self-reliance, riders that finish through determination, and best of all, NO ENTRY FEE! Limited to the first 100 people, all you have to do to sign up is send in an e-mail.

www.Chequamegon100.com has been set up to provide all the race details and create a central place for riders to communicate. As we draw closer to the event, organizers TK and JM will be providing details on camping, meet up locales, and the final route selection.

This looks very, VERY cool. For more info visit the Chequamegon100.com site and/or visit the race page on Facebook since you KNOW you're on there anyway! LOL!)

EDIT: RACE IS FILLED!! Nice work.

Arrowhead 135 Mile Winter Ultra Marathon Begins

2010-02-01T16:19:00.000-05:00

A bunch of hardcore, winter loving, snow bike riding freaks (and I mean that in the best way possible), as well as some runners and skiers lined up today for the start of the Arrowhead 135. Among the starters were XXC Issue #4 contributor Paul Errington. Paul came the whole way from the UK to throw down in the snow.

Arrowhead 135 Finishers Trophies. Who will get one in Twenty-Ten?

Also lining up is endurance racer Chris Plesko. While Chris was never in XXC, XXC #5 cover star and contributor Eszter Horanyi borrowed some lights from him for her 24 Hour National Championship win, so I guess he's like 2 degrees of XXC.

I don't doubt you will see some features on snow biking and about the Arrowhead 135 in an upcoming issue of XXC. In the meantime check out the Arrowhead Blog for daily updates, as well as Paul and Chris's blogs in the future. Also check out big wheel buildin', big mile lovin' Mike Curiak's recap and photos of last years event. It truly is amazing. Great photos and a great story.

Hats off to the men and women racing this thing. Snow, ice, and temps that I would walk out in, let alone race in! Good luck and safe travels to all of them.

Troupe @ The 12 Hour of Temecula

2010-01-26T20:51:00.000-05:00

The good folks at Troupe Racing have contributed quite a bit to XXC in the past, and with good reason... Troupe is a group of top notch racers that rock the SoCal endurance (and XC AND CX) race scene seemingly year round.

Troupe recently raced the 12 Hours of Temecula and put up some great results. Here's nice video recap from the race...

Nicely done!

For more on Troupe at the 12 Hours of Temecula, check out Trouperacing.com.

Southern Cross 2010 Results

2010-01-24T15:27:00.001-05:00

Co Southern Cross race organizer Namrita O'Dea checked in with XXC today to share the results from Saturday's re-scheduled Southern Cross race. Here are your results....

Mens

1. Cameron Cogburn 3:13
2. Nate Sibly 3:25
3. Thomas Turner 3:27
4. Dave Worth 3:38
5. Garth Prosser 3:45

Womens
1. Andrea Wilson 4:10
2. Brenda Simril 4:39
3. Emily Brock 4:57
4. Elizabeth Lee 5:01
5. Jenifer Englestad 5:12

Very nice job folks! For complete results click HERE.

Look for much more on Southern Cross II in the next issue of XXC Magazine due out late February/early March. Coverage will include a recap from Cameron Cogburn, photos from Chris Hines, and possibly a recap from Andy and Cara Applegate who rocked the course on a freaking tandem! Stay tuned to the XXC blog for details on issue 2.1 as it develops.

Gravel Grinder News Dot Com

2010-01-24T11:20:00.000-05:00

For all you types that get your kicks riding endless miles of gravel, make sure you check out Guitar Ted's newest place of two wheeled zealotry GRAVEL GRINDER NEWS!

That which WAS transiowahistory.blogspot.com is NOW gravelgrindernews.com. Go there. Bookmark it. Repeat daily to get your gravel grinder info fix.

G-Ted kicked it up a notch with the launch of this new site for gravel freaks. Nice work!

XXC (print) Now Available For International Readers

2010-01-22T14:52:00.000-05:00

Just a heads up that I have a limited quantity of XXC #5 in print available for International readers. For readers in the U.S., U.K., and Canada please order directly from MagCloud.com. For the rest of the World, you can order through the Merch page on xxcmag.com.

*Please note that the Crocodile Trophy feature is NOT included in the print version of XXC #5.

Thanks!

XXC Merch Info

2010-01-20T08:27:00.001-05:00

You may notice on the Merch page, the 2010 team kits are no longer for sale. The order will be sent to Champion System today, and production should start soon. The ESTIMATED shipping date to XXC World HQ is the first week in March. We will then ship the items to you ASAP. Believe me, I want them ASAP so as to wear by my first race in April :)

Thanks to all the folks who bought a jersey or kit. It will be great to see folks out on the race course or on epic rides flying the XXC colors. For those who wanted in on the order, but didn't make it, there are plans to do another run in the mid summer so as to have some gear arrive in time for fall.

Also, XXC has been getting some request for the return of the "Fun Hurts" t shirts, more L and XL "Inspiring Saddle Sore t shirts, and some "big boy" XXL sizing. So noted, and I hope to have all of that back in stock soon or at least by the release of XXC Season II, Issue I in late February or early March.

One last reminder to folks who ordered jerseys and shorts. This was a custom order. XXC cannot exchange clothing for different sizes. If something you ordered is just not going to work for you, I may be able to refund your money if the UNUSED item is returned.

EDIT: Also if you ordered a jersey or shorts (or both) and ALSO ordered a t shirt or sticker pack, I've sent those out already, and you should receive them shortly. Kits will be mailed when they come in in March.

As always, thank you for your support and thanks for sporting the XXC colors.

Big Thanks

2010-01-18T20:27:00.000-05:00

Big thanks to the following folks who took part in XXC Magazine's "Sort of Free" Downloads For Haiti Benefit Weekend.

William B.
Yancy S.
Keith M.
Douglas B.
James D.
Emily B.
Brian W.
David S.
Tim A.
Neil B.

100% of the profit (after PayPal took its cut) from these downloads has been donated to God's Littlest Angels Orphanage. While what XXC was able to donate was a drop in the bucket of what is needed there, it is SOMETHING. I thank all the folks who took part, and/or went on to the G.L.A.O. site and contributed. The bike gods will no doubt hook you up with some good race/ride karma.

Thanks again.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

Freaking Addictions!!

2010-01-17T18:05:00.000-05:00

For the past 3 years I've done the Leesburg Bakers Dozen in Leesburg, Virginia. The race is the cats meow and more. It has only has about 15 feet of elevation gain, but the course is twisty, turny, single track fun. Not to mention free camping, bonfires, free pizza, live blue grass music, accurate electronic timing, bucu swag, and just a freaking great vibe, all for under 100 beans (solo).

With all that it's no doubt that the race has grown from a couple hundred folks racing for 13+ hours, to now 450+ racers, racing for 13+ hours, and the race selling out in LESS than one hour!! I believe the word is "addiction" but I'm not 100% sure.

I love it!

Me @ the '09 LBD. Photo by Tim Mullin.

When you race a course like the Bakers Dozen, you fly through the first few laps thinking, "wow, this a blast, and I'm FLYING!!" BUT about 4 hours later you will start to think- "Maybe I went out too hard?" And about 10 hours later you will start to think "I really don't remember there being a climb like this earlier!!" I know that by forking over my $85 that I just signed up for cramping, bonking, puking and 13 hours of pain. BUT I also know that I just signed up for one the best endurance events, and best times on the East Coast, and cannot wait until April 17th.

What amazes me is that I sat in front of the computer today, credit card in hand like I was waiting for concert tickets, logged on to BikeReg.com, and waiting for the clock to hit Noon. What amazes me even more, is that 449 other folks were doing the SAME damn thing. I mean we're signing up for good times, BUT we're signing up for a lot of PAIN too.

Sweet.

Sweet.

Pain.

Freaking addictions.

Intermontane Adds Single Speed Category

2010-01-16T18:12:00.000-05:00

From the peeps at the Intermontane Challenge...

The Intermontane Challenge 2010 is please to add a single speed category for both men and women for our event on July 26-31^st 2010. The Intermontane Challenge has been fielding questions on why there is no single speed categories in our event and we felt that to live up to our commitment to listen to our racers, we would add the additional categories. The course for 2010 has a great mix of single and double track and with the large amount of single speeders out there, The Intermontane Challenge sees this as another great addition to our second year event.

The single speed category will run with the geared categories and run the same course. The prize break down will be released once we have seen the response to the new category.

The 2010 edition of The Intermontane Challenge is right on schedule with our proposed course awaiting approval. Our limited early registration comes to an end on January 31^st so don’t miss out.

Intermontane Challenge 2009 Highlights from Intermontane Challenge on Vimeo.

Follow the race on Face book and Twitter. Those links are on our web site.

www.intermontanechallenge.com

See you in July!!!

Source: Lisa Strchan, Intermontane Challenge

XXC #5 FREE! (Sort Of)

2010-01-15T11:39:00.000-05:00

Reading single speed freak (and general freak) Rich "Dickie" Dillen's blog this a.m.. got me thinking about stuff. "Stuff" being the recent earthquake in Haiti. While I'm not "Mr. Current Events" (finding out a full 24+ hours later, that there even WAS an earthquake in Haiti), I do know that even the hardest race, or the most epic bonk is meaningless and stupid compared to what this folks are going through and going to be going through.

Anyway, I read Dickie's blog, and it seems Mrs. Dickie (AKA "Pie") did some time working at an orphanage in Haiti a while back. That orphanage is OK, but you can be sure that there will be a WHOLE lot of kids in need filtering in ASAP. And they are gonna need some serious help. You can check out Rich's blog for the full scoop on the orphanage and what sort of goods they plan on shipping out to them.

Since I doubt that orphans or earthquake victims in Haiti need free copies of XXC , I figured this weekend I will offer digital copies of XXC #5 to YOU, for free. Sort of.... It will still cost you $2.99, but all proceeds (after PayPal take it's fees) will be sent to God's Littlest Angels to help these kids out. If you already have #5, buy it again! Or if you don't want the mag, or want to donate more than a couple bucks, go direct to their site and make a donation on your own "just 'cause."

This offer is good from now until Monday on $2.99 digital downloads*, so get clicking and lets send some cash their way! This is a good way for any folks who may have been jacked that we had to start charging for the downloads, enjoy the mag and feel good that their cash isn't going to fund stuff like race entries, bikes, gas in my car, and beer. LOL! Also, for any cynics, this is no attempt at "tax deductable crap-ola, people that make $29,000 LESS than they did last year, really don't worry about that stuff. Kapeesh?

I will post the total next week. CLICK HERE if you want to see a preview of the mag before you buy, and CLICK HERE to find out more about the work that God's Littlest Angels does for kids.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com

*If you buy the download as part of a gift pack I will deduct the price of the mag and donate that.

2010 XXC Mag Kits

2010-01-12T16:19:00.000-05:00

Over the next couple weeks XXC will be taking orders for the first ever, fresh off the Illustrator art board XXC race jersey! In other words we got ourselves a spanky kit to wear at the races this year!

We went with a classic look... Nothing too over the top, or garish, and personally I think we got it right! Black, grey and red, pimp the cause, but not to the point of just looking silly. I mean we're ALREADY wearing tight fitting Lycra, no need to blind people too.

We're not a fan of billowing "club cut" jerseys, so the jersey is cut racer boy (or girl) style. If you want a little wiggle room, go one size up (my preference, still form fitting but not SUPER tight), and if you want a LOT of wiggle room size two up. The are available in sizes Extra Small to XXXL and go for $55, plus shipping.
Full length zipper (a must), 3 rear pockets (standard), with the the xxcmag.com and the "Inspiring Saddle Sores Since 2009" logos on the back. The only way to get a jersey is to order by January 20th, 2010. Again, they will NOT be for sale on the site 1/20/10. The expected delivery date is up to 8 weeks after the order is placed on the 21st, but should be in sooner. For more sizing information please consult the Champion System size chart. To order hit the XXC Merch page.

Since we were taking the time to do up the jerseys,
we thought we might as well do up some bibs...

More grey and black for easy cleaning, and a stealthy look. The bibs come with the Champion System 4 Way Pad. A pad which has kept my nuggets healthy for much of the past 5 years or so. As well as the sensitive nether regions of teams around the world.

The back panel is emblazoned with XXC's "fun hurts" tag. The size panels feature two grey stripes and the XXC mag circle logo. Men's and Women's cuts available. In sizes extra small to XXL. Regular shorts are also available with the same pad, just no bibs and $10 cheaper. So pre race and emergency trail size "evacuations" are easier.

For sizing info please consult the Champion System size chart. Bib shorts are $70 +s/h and regular shorts are $60. All are available for order until January 20th on the XXC Merch page.

Coffee Anyone?

2010-01-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

If you want to move a bit beyond the gut wrenching, "I'm gonna see that flying out at least one orifice later" instant coffee of yesterday, you might want to check out some of these options:

Java Juice:

Java Juice bills itself as "100% liquid organic coffee extract made in the USA from Arabica coffee." It's super light, and packable. All you need is some hot water. Of course there MAY be one or two folks (DAVE!) just crazy enough to take a hit of the Juice straight...

"I was starting to feel a little crazy and wanting to get jiggy with it. So, I unleashed my secret weapon: Java Juice and M&Ms. Stoveless this time, the caffeine fix came from these little packets of heaven. Better than GU hands down! Chasing copious amounts of M&Ms, well that was the kick the turbo needed. "
- Dave Harris, 2009 Grand Loop

Starbucks Via

It appears that coffee super giant Starbucks also has thrown their apron into pot with the introduction of Via. Via is not an extract like Java Juice, but with all the hype and talk of "super secret technology" around it. and the Starbucks name (i.e. cash) behind it, it MIGHT be another viable option to the above mentioned old gut wrenching instant coffees.

So those are some instant ways to get some java on the trail, but if you want fresh brewed, and are looking for some tips on how to get it done, check out adventure cyclist, and long time xxcmag.com contributor Joe Meiser's trail side coffee brewing technique...

This looks like a quality way to get some fresh brewed, NON instant coffee in the system while out on the trail. Joe does this all with a D.I.Y. stove he built. For more on Joe's technique, and the supplies and materials used, check out his blog.

Not sure I have Joe's patience for the fresh brewed, but I do look forward to trying some of the newer "instant" coffees on the market. Wow, all this typing about coffee, has made me want to go get a cup.

*Above photo from the Java Juice web site.

Channeling The Ghosts of The Road

2010-01-11T16:43:00.001-05:00

My friends at Twin Six have a jersey that I’m very much in love with right now. The Speedy Paris jersey. I love it because when I see it it doesn’t make me think of drug scandals, team cars, egos, and 10 speed groupos with electric shifting. It makes me think of why I love cycling, riding on dirt, and of course endurance mountain bike racing.

How the hell does a jersey do that you ask?

Well, the vintage look and styling of “Speedy Paris” makes me think of the old days of the Tour de France. The days when bike racing was practically unheard of in the U.S. (yes, even less heard of than it is today, but when heard of probably more respected), the days when most of our parents weren’t even born yet, when much of the race was on dirt roads, on bikes that probably weighed as much as today’s down hill bikes.

It makes me think of the days when road racing was more like the Tour Divide than the Tour de France, and the racers appeared to be more like “working class, shot and a beer, ride you into the ground, don’t f*ck with me” guys than 115 pound super humans, the size of 9 year old boys, that fly up paved mountain passes on 15 pound bikes.

That is not to say that today’s Pro road dogs aren’t tough. They’re damn tough (see Jens Voigt, pre dope scandal Tyler Hamilton, George Hincapie, thank you). In my opinion, most are tougher than the many of the 300 pound, pampered athletes of the NFL, that many folks thing are so tough.

To me this jersey is killer, not because it looks cool (although it does), but because seeing it spawns memories of images from the Tours early days, like those seen below. It makes me think of those hardened racers, who did huge climbs, virtually unsupported, on dirt, with one gear. Guys who rode each other into the ground more for bragging rights, and the love of the bike, than to score endorsement contracts or a super model. Guys that would kick my ass, and think me a nancy boy goof with a “magazine” and a 27 gear mountain bike with 100 millimeters of suspension (not that plenty of folks today don’t think that).

Not sure I’ll get around to ordering a Speedy anytime soon (Holiday debt!), but I do know that this time next week I’ll be hurling myself towards Georgia for the 2010 Southern Cross race, and you can bet your ass that as I haul my “I thought this was the off season?” ass over those 50 miles of dirt roads with nearly 8,000 feet of climbing, I will be channeling the the mojo of Maurice Geldhof, Federico Ezquerra, and a myriad of others in order to reach the finish.

Vive le Tour, vive le Speedy, vive le dirt, vive climbing big ass mountains on a bike and hurling yourself back down trying to at least beat the rider in front of you.

*Photos courtesy of The Nationaal Archief photo collection. Please visit their Flickr site for more amazing vintage photos and information on these historic photos and the racers in them.

Music: “Georgia Swing” by Jelly Roll Morton & His Red Hot Peppers

Joe Meiser Tour Divide Video THE WHOLE THING!

2009-12-31T17:18:00.000-05:00

Joe kicked up the compression a notch and now shares his ENTIRE 38+ minute Tour Divide slideshow/video with us. Pour a beer, get some snacks and enjoy. Thanks Joe!

Follow Joe on his blog.

Texas Heats Up This Winter

2009-12-26T18:15:00.000-05:00

As many of us in the Endurance Mountain Bike race scene recover from the Holiday and/or dig out from ice and snow, folks down in Texas are turning up the XXC heat with a BUNCH of racing! Here is just a sample of the races Texans have to choose from in the coming months:

The 2010 Frozen Endurance Series

The 2010 Frozen Endurance series consists of three separate events. Each race offers a 4 and 6 hour category, with individual age/gender classes for each. Pre-registration is only $35 per racer for all classes/divisions. The total race field is limited to 300 racers per event.

January 9th, 2010 • Boulder Park, Dallas TX

February 13th, 2010 • Big Cedar, Dallas, TX

March 6th • Johnson Branch, Valley View TX

For more information on the Frozen Endurance Series check out www.DORBA.org.

2010 Hill Country Bicycle Works Marathon Championship Series:

This series has 5 races from November 2009 to February 2010,
and includes the following races:

Pain in the Plain
November 14th, 2009
Palo Duro Canyon, TX
For results visit TMBRA.org

Excruciation Exam 2010
January 2nd, 2010
Warda, TX

El Paso Puzzler
January 17th, 2010
El Paso, TX

Miles of DisComfort
January 30th, 2010
Comfort, TX

Holidaze Marathon at Camp Eagle
February 13th, 2010
Rocksprings, TX

The 85 mile E.E. marathon is fast approaching and combines the Bluff Creek and Rocky Hill bike ranches. It is also the longest running MTB marathon in Texas! Texas resident and racer Vance McMurry described this race to XXC as "excruciating." The race draws folks from all over Texas including Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin.

A legend is gone....

Sadly the legendary Mas O Menos race (covered extensively in XXC #1) will not happen in 2010. The M.o.M. website states that Desert Sports (the promoters) have finally been unable to secure satisfactory agreements with all of the landowners along the route. For more on this unfortunate event visit desertsportstx.com.

In a state as huge and as bad ass as Texas I bet there are a few more out there, so if you’re heading South this winter keep an eye on the DORBA and TMBRA sites. More than likely you will see more about a few of these races in XXC Season Two, Issue One.

Get Your Genghis On

2009-12-16T18:40:00.000-05:00

Check out the Mongolia Bike Challenge... This stage race looks pretty freaking cool! 10 stages, 1,400 KM, and 14,000 meters of climbing. I seriously can’t imagine racing in a land so filled with history. To get an idea about the race check out the video from The Mongolia Bike Challenge web site, and the gallery of photos. I wonder if they would let me wield a big ol sword?? Doubt it.

Crocodile Trophy Video Feature

2009-12-15T18:56:00.000-05:00

In XXC #5 we had a feature on the 2009 Crocodile Trophy. To see more, there is a 20+ minute video recap of this year’s race on the Belgian Sporza Videozone site. Very little of it is in English, but it's still a good watch. Plus there's kangaroos, so it must be good.

The ABRA HIlly Billy Roubaix

2009-12-15T18:48:00.000-05:00

A while back I mentioned that the Appalachian Bicycle Racing Association (ABRA) was going to be putting on a dirt/gravel road race in the Morgantown, WV area this summer. Well details are filtering in, and this is what I have so far... The race will be The Hilly Billy Roubaix, and take place June 26, 2010, and as far as the rest I'll let the ABRA e mail speak for itself:

"No whiners, pretty boys, drama queens or posers aloud! At this point the race
looks to be between 60 – 80 miles long, that depending on which route
we choose to make final. Look for this race to be a MEAN event, taking “roads” that
only we locals in West Virginia would ever call roads. Gravel, mud and
dirty required! More details soon as everything become finalized."

Go to bikereg.com to register. And keep an eye out on xxcmag.com and abraracing.com for more on this race as it develops.

For a list of some upcoming gravel grinder and eduro cross races, check out XXC Magazine #5.

WVMBA 2010 Ultra Schedule

2009-12-12T19:01:00.000-05:00

2010 West Virginia Mountain Bike Assoc. Ultra Series Schedule:

#1 Sun., June 20th, Massanutten Hoo-Ha!, McGaheysville, VA

#2 Sun., June 27th, The Wayne Ultra, Marietta OH

#3 Sat., August 7th, Big Bear Lake, Bruceton MIlls, WV

#4 Sun., Sept., 5th, ACE Adventure MTB Ultra, Oak Hill, WV

#5 Sun., Sept., 19th Revenge of The Rattlesnake, Davis, WV

If you’re familiar with the WVMBA XC series, you know that their races are no joke. Even less funny, but more fun are their Ultra Races. 40 to 50 mile races that feel like 100! Last year I had the pleasure (I think) of racing the Wayne Ultra just one week after a 4th lap bonk at the Lumberjack 100. I finished, but left a little bit of blood, sweat, tears, dignity and breakfast out there somewhere.

If you want a half a century or so of rocks, roots, mud, steep climbs and gnarly descents that leave you spent but pumped up enough to bite the head off a live rooster (Ozzy Osbourne like) then THESE are your races. Check out WVMBA.com for more information.

A Mountain FeedBag Update...

2009-12-05T19:22:00.000-05:00

You may or may not remember my review of the Epic Ride Research Mountain FeedBag in Issue #4 of XXC. The bags have been sold out for some time, and many folks seemed to have enquired about them without succes. Well today XXC found out why in the form of an e mail from ERR which I share below...

Hello from Epic Ride Research.

You’re receiving this email because you’ve expressed interest in Mountain FeedBag. As founder of this company I’d like to give you an update.

Late this summer, I took a sudden and unprecedented leave of absence from operating this company. An illness that had been in the background suddenly ramped up, leaving me unable to conduct business. Mountain FeedBag happened to be on an extended backorder at the time. Little did I know, inquiries about Mountain FeedBag continued to pour in during this time.

Please understand, I have been absolutely in love with (and dedicated to) this company since 2006. I treasure each and every customer (you!) and love hearing your stories, successes, and future plans of epic rides. I am eager to get back to business…. More than you can know!

Illness is fading, treatment is working. I am slowly getting back on my feet. My manufacturer is reorganizing to accommodate the next batch. Further, I am fazing out my day job in order to dedicate myself to Epic Ride Research’s product design and distribution.

Thank you for your patronage, your support of American-made products, your passion for pushing yourself to the limit, and most of all your patience as I get back to business.

I’ll be in contact with each of you individually about your inquiries and orders. I’m starting with the earliest inquiries and will continue down the list. I’ll talk with you soon!

Christa Olsson Epic Ride Research, LLC

Glad to see that Epic Ride Research is going to be going strong. They make a great product that really does allow endurance racers and riders to easily carry more food and supplies for the long rides. Get well to ERR founder Christa Olsson from XXC.

Lubrication

2009-04-11T17:12:00.000-04:00

Our roadie and cross brothers and sisters take their embrocation (AKA "Belgium Knee Warmers") very seriously. I've noticed over the years that the endurance mountain bike crowd tends to take their lubrication just as seriously.

What’s yours?