The cuff at the bottom of the shorts is wider than most traditional cycling shorts and it will steer you away from that sausage look that none of us really enjoy. The larger cuff was a feature that I had been looking forward to when I  unwrapped them. They’re rather long in the leg so, for women who are looking for something a bit more modest, this might be what you’re after. The waist band is thick without being so thick that it will cut into your waist and it is supportive and holds everything in without a hint of muffin top. I was rather surprised by this as I normally expect to get this in bib knicks and not plain knicks.

They’re comfortable enough for a quick commute, a trip to the shops or a 100km in the saddle without a problem. But (yes, I found a but), when I wore them on a commute to work one day and then had to put them on again for the trip home, there wasn’t the same amount of elasticity as their had been at the beginning of the day. I don’t like having to pull my shorts up when I’m fanging it through Melbourne at peak hour.

Are they better than any other pair of knicks? Probably not. The big bonus with these shorts is that they do have the longer leg for the extra modesty, the thicker cuff (for better looking leg muscles) and the quality waist band which doesn’t cut into you (and no muffin top). If you’re not into branding yourself, these knicks are perfect, and if you’ve been looking for the right fit but still haven’t had any luck, try these on the chance that they might work for you. It is a different and new product that’s totally thinking outside the box in a different direction.

 Coming onto the market at $149.00 AUD, the Sirens are priced reasonably. Go here for frequently asked questions and all the technical info.

I was pretty excited by the arrival of this cycling top, when it came by post it was nicely rolled up in a little package with information on the outside. I received the purple Popsicle Jersey and it’s a great colour. Hidden in the back pocket is a secret tube repair patch which I thought was ridiculously cute and if you’re into repairing your tubes it’s a nice little extra. The tube repair patch doesn’t last long in the wash and with my handling skills, I’d say best to remove it and put it straight into the saddle bag.

The Look and Feel
The top has a really nice fit. I requested a medium (size 12) and it fit me perfectly and had enough space underneath for base layers. It comes with a long back which I know a lot of women are really keen on, though this is not something that I personally require in a cycling top.

The Popsicle does have a longer front zip than most jerseys with the half length zip, I tend to get frustrated that they aren’t long enough and this one hits the spot very well. The pockets at the back have zips and reflective piping; I’m not a huge fan of the zips when riding because it’s just not as easy, but if you’re not in the habit of getting nutrition out of your jersey whilst cycling then it wouldn’t be a problem.

When to Wear the Popsicle
On the bike it’s great. I like to think of the soft-shell that covers your chest as a ‘piece of armour’, Ground Effect calls it WindFoil and it protects your chest from the wind and ultimately the windchill. If you’re in Melbourne riding at the moment, you will know how cold it’s been, so it has been worthwhile having this top as part of my wardrobe. I get pretty cold on the bike in the mornings and Beach Road loves a head wind. To counteract this, I use this jersey as the top layer to make it warmer as I’m not the sort of person who likes to be cold. The WindFoil does what it says it does and deflects chilly winds, though the Popsicle is not something you would wear without layers. For example, I use a merino base layer, a cycling jersey and arm warmers as a minimum in the mornings; all of this goes underneath the Popsicle.

Popsicle Performance
I introduced this as a multipurpose top which it really is. You can easily wear this top in summer, merino wool is really good at drawing sweat away from the body and its job in summer is to keep you cooler. I’m sure you’re wondering how I tested that in the middle of winter? Luckily, I run as well as cycle and I’ve been wearing it over the top of my sports bras on my long and short runs. I’m not a good runner, but I sweat when I run which makes me a good tester when it comes to merino wool. More often than not my jersey comes home soaked in sweat; I can take it off and be completely dry underneath.

To properly review the Popsicle I read the washing/care instructions on the Ground Effect website. They’re very specific about avoiding cold water and suggest washing in warm water of 45 degrees. Honestly, if I can’t just toss it in with a wash I’m really not interested in it, so I have been just tossing this in the wash and I always wash with cold water. The jersey is still good, but to get the best wear out of your wardrobe you should probably follow the instructions.

The Verdict
Ultimately, it’s a good piece that does what it says it will do and belongs in a cyclists or triathletes wardrobe. At $129.00 AUD it’s worth the spend.

Ground Effects gear is available online and you can also see the tech details and FAQs for the Popsicle online.

When looking at a rain jacket all the words and technology like wind proof, rain proof, breathable, and reflective should be included into the technology of the product.

The Tineli Rainman jacket that I received has all of these technologies included with it, it’s a given these days. Technology in cycling gear is at the top of it’s game right now and it’s only going to get better. I read up on the Tineli jacket and learnt the new term Rainskin which is used in the advertisement of the jacket.

Tineli describes Rainskin as, “ a light weight and transparent membrane which apart from being waterproof and highly breathable is also very light to wear and compact to stow.”

There is nothing worse than a bulky jacket that doesn’t fit in the back of a jersey pocket (I have one that doesn’t, I don’t use it), except perhaps a jacket that is too complicated to scrunch or fold. Luckily the Tineli Rainman scores full points as it is easy to stow in a back pocket, I’ve even squished it into my saddle bag on a day when even the weather just wasn’t sure what it was doing and I didn’t want it in my pocket.

Fan’s of light weight bicycle culture and minimalism should be looking at this jacket, not just because of its fold-ability and squish-ability, but because of the reflective piping along the back of the seams that provide a bit more confidence when you don’t really know what’s coming up from behind.

I don’t tend to sweat much on the bike unless I’m going uphill or I’m competing in the Melbourne commuter races and then I find that the jacket does stick to me somewhat if I have skin exposed. If you cover up the skin and wear arm warmers or a long sleeve jersey underneath the jacket then breath-ability is top notch.

It seems to be a durable garment , I’ve been using it and abusing it for 4 months and I’m happy with the way it’s holding up. If it’s not in my bag it’s thrown into a draw until that last minute rush for kit on a rainy morning.

The fit is good, I can’t fault it, plenty of space to stretch and move. Don’t forget Tineli designs their gear for your position on the bike so if you want a more relaxed fit then they suggest the next size up. If you do like to go out and get dirty, you can throw it in the washing machine (cold water wash) and it will be fine, I’ve done it a few times and the product stays true to its original self.

Most importantly, I’ve stayed dry during my cycling journey’s and if I knew about this jacket before I bought my other jacket, I would have probably chosen the Rainman because of the simplicity of the design and the added bonus that other people can see my kit under my jacket.

Check out the technical speak and read the full details on the product page of the website. It’s the perfect jacket for those of us who like to pack light with the added benefits of durable and breathable.

I’ve used it frequently for approximately 4 months, you tend to see pretty quickly if your kit is going to last and this is definitely a piece that’s in it for the long haul.

The Tineli Rainman Jacket retails for $134.95 and is available from all leading bike shops or you can organise with Tineli to pickup the next day from your favourite bike shop. Tineli do both custom cycling wear and offer a range Tineli brand cycling wear with good looks and prices: www.tineli.com.au

Rob included me in on an email recently from Bec Domange, a local A grade racer who recently put together a seminar about understanding bike racing, Rob asked Bec to give her thoughts towards the series, Bec made the following comments.

Riders such as Kathy Watt, Anna Wilson of the late 90s to Emma Rickards and Olivia Gollan racing well into the New Millennium and the riders currently taking the world by storm Rochelle Gilmore, Chloe Hosking and Shara Gillow have set the bar for what can be achieved by Australian Women.

Cykle Events is providing an opportunity like never before right here in Metropolitan and Regional Victoria. A criterium series solely for women. Providing women of all abilities the opportunity to race on some of the best circuits in Victoria, with the added bonus of substantial prize money and all run in the most professional environment possible. It is sure to rival the atmosphere of Speed Week in the USA and the Kermesses in Belgium.

The racing will be fast, tactical and team oriented. It is sure to not only increase the already rapidly growing nature of Women’s cycling but give the women in the peloton the exposure and support they deserve. It is an opportunity to experience the biggest event in Women’s cycling Victoria has ever seen!

Here is some of what you need to know.
- A four-round series of cycling races to be held throughout Victoria (Australia), the Women’s Grand Prix will allow women to battle it out for over $5,000 in cash and prizes in this teams-based event.

- The Women’s Grand Prix has been designed to address the shortfalls in many club-level cycling races in Victoria, with a lack of women’s-only event and minimal team-based events.

- The Women’s Grand Prix will also incorporate a three-round series for under 17-aged girls.

Rob Carson, General Manager of events group, Cykel, declared "This series is expected to be hotly contested by women from around Victoria and interstate, with new teams being established and a rivalry setting into women’s cycling that hasn’t been seen in Victoria before."

Still not sure? Here’s some of the finer print about teams.

The Women’s Grand Prix is a team’s event.  Collusion is allowed and encouraged.  It is preferred that all riders within a team wear similar jerseys for identification.  Note that teams do not need to be Cycling Victoria or Cycling Australia registered teams to participate as a team in the Women’s Grand Prix.

Not a racer? These races will be an exciting day out for anyone interested in bikes, it will be fast racing and lots of action. This is a great opportunity to find out a bit more about racing and perhaps even spark a new interest; everyone is welcome.

When and where?

Round 1
Saturday December 17th, 2011
Macpherson’s Park
Coburns Rd, Melton
Hosted by: Melton Cycling Club

Round 2
Saturday January 28, 2012
Casey Fields
Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne
Hosted by: Carnegie Caulfield Cycling Club

Round 3
Sunday February 12, 2012
Mayfair Park, Bendigo
Bendigo
Hosted by: Bendigo Cycling Club

Round 4
Saturday March 3, 2012
National Boulevard, Campbellfield
Hosted by: Coburg Cycling Club

This is a great opportunity for women to race with friends and create that foundation for women’s cycling in Australia, for entries and more information go to www.cykelevents.com.au/page/womensgp we look forward to seeing you racing.

About the Author
Rowena Scott is an enthusiastic Melbourne based cyclist and is giving women’s cycling a well deserved push by covering women’s cycling topics for Bicycles Network Australia and SheRides Cycling.

Matt was happy to answer our questions as well as commenting on the changes  necessary in women’s cycling to create a stronger foundation and create a more positive future. He is also confident that Cadel Evans will wear the maillot jaune in the 2012 Tour de France with more time trialling than we’ve ever seen in the past 20 years.

Rowena Scott of Bicycles Network Australia (BNA) speaks with Matt Keenen and taps into a fountain of cycle knowledge.

BNA: How did you become an ambassador for the Hanover Connect East Ride for Home?

Keenan: The people who are involved on the organising committee contacted me and asked me if I wanted to be involved. I was very humbled by it, to get an opportunity to be an ambassador for such a good cause is a great thing to be apart of, it has a feel good factor about it and you feel like you’re actually contributing something to the community.

The job that I do really, is a pretty selfish job, I sit in front of a television and talk about bike racing. Cycling is my hobby and I’ve managed to make a job out of it. To get a chance to do something that is really positive and constructive through a sport that I love is a great thing to be involved in.

BNA: Do you know what you’re up for with the 75km ride; are there any hills on East Link?

Keenan: I drove East Link recently on the way back from one of the stages of the Jayco Herald Sun Tour and as I was driving back up I was assessing the road and to have a look at it to see which way the wind would be most likely to blow, hoping I can get a tailwind home. Perfect road surface, it’s as good as it gets. I did the Mt Macedon Challenge last year in the same sort of physical condition and that was 136km, it was hilly the whole way and I was exhausted by the end of that; I should be okay with the 75km.

BNA: When commentating professionally, how much work is there behind the scenes in building knowledge and information to be ready for a broadcast or is it all spontaneous?

Keenan: You’ve got to do a lot of research in order to be spontaneous and there is a lot of research that you do, that you don’t end up using, but it comes into play if the scenario presents itself you can use that information. For example, the Tour De France, there are 198 riders and you need to know the story about all 198 riders, because in the period particularly where I commentate, it fills in the race when there’s not much happening and there’s a long breakaway, normally it’s the guys in the breakaway that are in their first Tour de France or their second Tour de France so you need to have something to say about everybody. You have got to do the same amount of research for everyone of the riders to get plenty of background on them. Then there are some guys who go through the race who are completely anonymous and you never mentioned their name, yet you’ve done a lot of research on them, it’s a fair bit of work that goes into being prepared for any situation in a race so you’ve got something to say.

BNA: Since Cadel Evans’s win at the Tour de France have you noticed any significant change amongst the media in relation to the way cycling is reported?

Keenan: The benchmark now to get a cycling story in the paper is actually higher than it was in the past because Cadel Evans has raised the bar. In the past if we had a guy like Jack Bobridge riding a bike race in Australia who this year won two world titles on the track, he’s broken a world record and he’s a favourite to win a gold medal at the Olympics. In the past that would have instantaneously created media coverage, but now it doesn’t. Now it virtually doesn’t rate a mention, the bar has been raised so high by Cade Evans. It’s a catch-22, he’s put cycling on the map but now cycling has got to live up to the standards that have been set by Cadel and they’re pretty lofty standards that he’s set. He has achieved things that no other Australian cyclists has ever achieved, brilliant result for the sport, best thing to happen to cycling in Australia, now the next generation has some really big shoes to fill.

BNA: Can Cadel Evans win the Tour de France again?

Keenan: Yes, because the course that was designed for 2011 had everything against Cadel, it had the least amount of time trialling that we’ve seen in the last 50 years. There where lots of mountain top finishes that favoured his rivals, next year there’s more time trialling than we’ve seen in the last 20 years, there is almost 100km against the clock and there’ only three real mountain top finishes. The course for 2012 suits him a lot better than the course for 2011 and he’s got a better team around him for next year on the tricky transitional changes, I think he’ll start next year as a favourite; he is the man to beat.

BNA: GreenEdge made mention early on in its launch about a women’s team, I understand that the women’s pro-tour licences are easier to come by and the dates are different to the men’s. Have you heard any further developments on the matter?

Keenan: They will have a women’s team and it will be announced later November I think and there will be a couple of international riders in the team with plenty of experience to really guide a bunch of young Australian women. In the last couple of years we have had quite a few of our experienced Australian women retire and there is a generation of women in there early twenties that are just starting to make their mark internationally, so they’re going to have a couple of internationals that can hopefully guide them and go on to do some of the great things we’ve seen female cyclist do in the past.

On the road for example at the Olympic Games, there has only been one Australian who has won a medal of any colour in the men’s side of the event. In the women’s we’ve had two gold medallists, we’ve had a lot of success in women’s cycling and I think that there’s a group around that twenty to twenty-two mark that are going to have that success in the future.

BNA: Where do you think women’s cycling is heading? Is it heading in a positive direction?

Keenan: It is there’s been a lot of discussion about it recently about whether there is enough support for women’s cycling. One of the challenges for women’s cycling and women’s sport in general is getting media coverage, because its media coverage that attracts the sponsors and in cycling that is even more so than club based sports, whether it be soccer or national sports based. In cycling you only sponsor a team because you’re getting exposure for your money that you’re investing in the squad. Women’s cycling needs to make a push to get more media coverage and it’s really difficult to do, it’s not something that happens over night. How they go about doing that I’m not exactly sure. It might mean a slight change in some of the formats of the racing that allows tours to run in conjunction with men’s tours that have slightly shorter stages near that end with higher impact style racing. Perhaps they need to tinker with the format of the races to make it more appealing to media coverage.

BNA: As a sport loving nation what can we do as members of the cycling community to firmly cement women’s cycling as a sport that should be celebrated in Australia?

Keenan: Watch it on television for starters and when you read newspapers articles about women’s cycling, particularly if it’s online, make comments and show that people are actually reading those articles. It’s a demand driven thing, if you look at the Herald Sun website, for example, they’ve always got the top five articles rolling over and the ones that are read the most are football, AFL football and that’s why they cover AFL football because that’s what the readers are demanding. It comes down to the people that are in cycling actually demonstrating that they’re supporting it and demonstrating that they’re watching it and its not something that will change over night, it will take a while to build that up.

BNA: Do you think the era of doping has ended in professional cycling?

Keenan: It will never end in any sport, there will always be someone out there trying to cheat in any walk of life, beyond sport as well. But that doesn’t mean that you give up the fight; it’s like law enforcement, there’s always going to be people out there that break the law, it doesn’t mean that you just say lets get rid of the police force and not bother with it. The one thing that cycling can be really proud of is how hard it has fought to try and catch people. A guy like Fabian Cancellara, for example, was tested fifty-five times last year, which is more than once a week. We hear some athletes from other sports complaining that they’re test six times within a year. I think that cycling has improved a lot, it’s made significant progress and it’s doing a lot to try and get the cheats. It’s the right path to be on and we’ve got to stay on that path.

BNA: In Alberto Contador’s case, its been going on for sometime, do you think its fair for the UCI to be dragging it out for so long? Has the recent discovery of the five Michigan Football team members having clenbuterol in their system going to make a difference to the outcome?

Keenan: I think that will help with Contador’s case but as far as how long it’s taken to get to this point; it’s embarrassing. We’re still waiting to see who won the 2010 Tour de France and we’re almost at the end of 2011, it should have been solved within six months at the very worst. If it continues to drag on, it continues to drag the sport through the mud so to speak, its one that I wish was solved before the end of last year and certainly before this year Tour de France. But we’re still waiting for a result; it’s a bad look for the sport if this continues to drag on.

Bicycles Network Australia would like to thank Matt Keenan for his time, we wish him all the best with his role as ambassador for the Hanover ConnectEast Ride for Home and the 75km ride that he will embark on this November 13.

For more information on how to donate to the Hanover ConnectEast Ride for Home or to join Matt on this ride, head to: www.rideforhome.com.au

Team SheSpoke had some excellent experience going in with team leader Lauretta Howarth whom placed third in the 2010 Crocodile Trophy in Far North Queensland, Lauretta, Jade Forsyth and Lesley Sutton had taken all three podium positions in the Herberton 8 hour enduro in Far North Queensland. Both Kelly and Jade had previously left their mark on the East Timorese event bringing valuable experience to the start line.

The six day multi-stage MTB event attracted over 300 international riders and 100 Timorese riders who tackled the 600km offroad journey.

Lauretta reflected on her journey in East Timor, "Racing in a developing country is challenging. Many of the facilities we take for granted here in Oz simply don’t exist in Timor-Leste, making the race a little more challenging but also adding to the uniqueness of the Tour De Timor experience."

Photo ? Keith McQueen

Kelly was out after the first day coming down with an illness that left her assisting the physio team for the remainder of the journey.

Lauretta made the following comments, "despite a few set backs and challenges the Tour De Timor was fantastic. Some pot-holes were so deep you’d struggle to climb out if you ever fell into one, not to mention sections where the road had simply disappeared leaving menacing drop-offs."

In the Open Womens category, the team placed third, behind two other Aussie womens teams and the prize money that they donated to The Life, Love and Health Foundation is used to fund and facilitate grassroots projects in Timor-Leste that benefit Timorese communities, particularly women and children to achieve improved health and education.

The dates for 2012 have already been announced, 9-14 September and registrations open on November 1 this year. If you’re into pain and you think you’re ready to join 400 elite mountain bikers then you should check out www.tourdetimor.com.

To find out more about the SheSpoke Cycle Wear Team and their latest adventures head to www.shespoke.com.au

A wonderful set of photos courtesy of Mathew Lynn that set you directly inside the action as Team SheSpoke powered through Timor.

Photoset & Title Photo ? 2011 Mathew Lynn

Before I could taste it my eye was drawn to a statement on the pack; it said, ’97% sugar free.’ My mind automatically went to everything I new about health and dieting. I know that sugar is our biggest enemy; we’ve got more sugar in our diets that ever before and its sugar that making us fat. That’s not what cyclist (or most people) are after. Rather, we’re all looking for something that is satisfying and enjoyable…and healthy.

I’m not a fan of muesli, but I had adopted a new policy: ‘if my training partner eats it, then I should eat it, because he’s fitter than me.’ As such, I’ve jumped on the muesli bandwagon and Emma was happy to help me out with a packet of the muesli to get me started.

What’s in it?
27% – Raw Nut Mix. Almonds, Cashews, Walnuts, Hazelnuts and Brazil Nuts
23% – Pumpkin, Sunflower, Linseed and Sesame Seeds. (Minerals, fatty acids, fibre)
36% – Rolled Oats
14% – Shredded Coconut

I visited the muesli website to get a better feel for the product and I came across the reason why Emma created the muesli: "Clients of my friend and personal trainer Donna Aston, couldn’t find a breakfast to complement their fitness programs. It’s still the most important meal of the day. So if you’re investing in getting fit and losing weight – both from a time and financial perspective – it’s important to enjoy a quality breakfast. That’s why I created the muesli."

There’s a lot of truth in what Emma is saying, I got the shock of my life when I found out that cornflakes have some of the highest sugar quantities on the shelf in the breakfast isle. I told my personal trainer that I was being good and eating cornflakes, she let me know how bad this was. As cornflakes are one of the most popular cereals, it makes for a good comparison.

Cornflakes are recommended as a 30 gram serving, with 24.9grams of carbohydrates and 2.4gram of sugar in that 30g serving. Compared with the same 30 gram sized serving of the musli, there are 8,3 grams carbohydrates and 0.6 grams sugar.

As a cyclist, if I am not eating, I am on holiday. My body needs a lot of fuel to power my 300km a week regiment. 30 grams of cornflakes with a high sugar rating aren’t going to cut it, I need consistency which is what the musli offers.

For the fitness nerds and calorie counters, lets look at the nutritional breakdown based on a 50g and 100g serving.

*Average sugar content may fluctuate seasonally

What do I think?
I like it, which is saying a lot, I’m a girl who likes rich and decadent food, so I was sceptical about jumping onto the health wagon and did in fact enjoy the muesli more than I thought I would.

I like that when it says there are nuts on the packaging that you can actually see them and taste them, you’ve got to crunch them up when you chew, unlike other brands where they stood on the top of Mt Everest and sprinkled a couple into the packet.

I’ve found it actually very handy to have with me, for those days when I am on the go, I take some muesli in a sealed plastic container and then grab some yogurt at the supermarket; I’ve found a healthy snack which has been keeping me fuller for longer.

I’m not the only one to enjoy it the Ladies Becoz Cycling Team was in on the act!

What does Donna Aston think?
Donna Aston has been a prominent figure in health and fitness for many years, I recall a Donna Aston created salad becoming a huge hit in South Yarra a few years ago and it was everything you wanted in a salad, healthy, it kept you fuller and it was tasty!

I’m inclined to believe her when she says, "I’ve been recommending the muesli by bodsquad to my clients and colleagues for several years now. It was created? thankfully? in response to the demand for a wholesome, natural, nutritionally-balanced breakfast alternative. It’s a great choice for those of us who are health conscious and want a quick, delicious and satisfying meal to start the day."

O2 Racing get serious about nutrition

Want more information? Head to the philosophy page of the website where you can find out more about how this product satisfies you and your training schedule.

Already convinced and interested in trying for yourself? the muesli comes in two sizes and costs $24.50 for 1kg or $112.50 for 5kg and can be ordered online.

My biggest question coming into the fitting, especially after just buying a new bike, was about the "fitting" that bike shops do. I wondered how often they put people on to incorrectly sized bikes and if I should be on a 52cm frame instead of the 54cm that I was currently riding. Andrew put my mind at rest and confirmed that although it does happen, it is not something that he has seen frequently. It isn’t just your height, the width of your hips or the height of your crotch that is taken into consideration when you receive a bike fit from Ret?l. Andrew wanted to find out, among other things, about my hip movement, ankle flexibility and any old injuries that I had. The level of detail he required surprised me.

Objective, dynamic and accurate data are the foundations of the Ret?l concept; each of us have unique biomechanics, which means we all move in different ways. As such the Ret?l concept has no preconceptions about a rider; it doesn’t assume you have to be able to pedal a certain way or that you must have your elbows bending at a specific angle. Instead, Ret?l looks as you as an individual cyclist with unique needs and their bike fitting concept takes this into consideration.

Let’s take a look at the measuring and fitting process:

We look at hip flexibility and I score well

Checking the shoulder positions, specifically the right one


Ankle flexibility and I score really well on this one too


On the bike

Straightening the cleat position


Realigning the feet position and cleats

LED markers are strategically placed on eight anatomical points of the rider: the wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, heel, and toe. 


Connecting the dots – one of the sensors on my arm


As the rider pedals, Ret?l’s sensor bar gathers real-time, three-dimensional data of the rider’s pedal strokes and movements.

What I discovered about my bike set up.

I went into the fit with the aim of finding a position on the bike that was more efficient and more comfortable; in the back of my mind I had the goal of racing. It turns out that my seat was too far back and my right cleat was out of alignment. Andrew moved my seat forward about 2.5 cms, which was significant, and we changed my cleat position so that it was straight. On Andrew’s advice I reduced my stem length from 90mm to 80mm. With the new bike fit, I went out to find out exactly how much Ret?l had improved my position and hopefully my speed. When I got on my bike to ride home, my first thoughts were that I was actually faster and that the bike felt really nice.

Three weeks on?

In the past few weeks I have been riding a lot with regular trips to Mordialloc and Frankston as well as my first criterium race at St Kilda Cycling Club (SKCC). I was really happy with my women’s ‘B’ Grade race at SKCC; we averaged 35.4km over 25.6km. Until I had the bike fit done I wasn’t overly confident about racing. Now that I’m comfortable and I’m training better the confidence has definitely improved.

I’m not the only one surprised with the improvement that the Ret?l fit has given me; a frequent riding partner, who I do most of my rides with, is also impressed with the gains that I’ve made in the past three weeks. We both agree that this wouldn’t have been possible without the Ret?l bike fit. I don’t feel as outstretched on the bike as I was and I feel more in control than I was before. Shortening the stem to 80mm may sound like overkill to some, perhaps I should just become more flexible instead, but I have decided to trust science and go with it.

With the help of Ret?l and Dr Andrew Steel I feel that I have achieved my goals: primarily comfort with an increase in my speed and, as a side effect, I’m more confident when racing.

Keeping track

All of the information concerning your position from the Ret?l fit session is printed out for your records. You can be more confident when buying a new bike in the future. The idea is that when you purchase a new bike, you can take the measurements from your first bike fit and transfer them straight onto the new one. Andrew also keeps a copy of all your data for future reference. This is useful if you get a refit in the future; Andrew can put you back on your bike and look at all the information again to find out what’s changed or what needs to be changed.

Who would the Ret?l bike fit suit?

Everyone. I asked Andrew about his clients, who they are and where they were from. They’re cyclists of all descriptions, from commuters to triathletes, road racers to mountain bikers. In professional cycling, Team RadioShack and Sky Pro Racing are both using the concept. These teams boast some of the biggest names in the business such as Lance Armstrong, Levi Leipheimer and Bradley Wiggins as well as Robbie McEwen and Michael Rogers; these athletes lend the bike fitting system credibility.

The Cost and Value

The basic package I experienced cost $260.00 and it takes around 90 minutes.

Is the bike fit worth the cost? Yes. Without any doubt I needed someone who was taking a scientific approach to set me up. I didn’t want a shop to tell me that this is the way it should be because that’s the way that it’s always been done. I wanted someone to look at me and say, well, on the basis of this solid scientific foundation, this is how it should be for you, and I felt got exactly that.

Further information about the Ret?l concept can be found at www.retul.com. The Ret?l website also allows you to track down a certified Ret?l fitter in your area. If you are in Melbourne or can travel here with your bike, I can recommend Dr Andrew Steel of Body Care Solutions (www.bodycaresolutions.com.au) who is qualified to fit you on your bike using the Ret?l concept.

Photos ? Stephen Brammer

Coming straight from New Zealand is The Workout Zone, a skin care company that is living by the motto, “Sweat yourself beautiful.” I was looking forward to the package arriving, everything about the advertisement of the product looked fresh, clean and young; It also looked like something that wouldn’t take longer than 5 minutes.

I received the full package called the Workout System Complete and it includes:

- Step 1: Purifying Cleanser
- Step 2: Outdoor Facial Repair or
- Step 2: Indoor Facial Repair
- Step 3: Luxuriant Bodywash
- Step 4: Rebalance Cream
- The Reinvigorating Hot Honey Handcream along with
- The Workout Zone travel bag

The first thing I noticed about the product was the scent; it was a nice clean smell without the feeling of all the antibacterial gels that are out there at the moment, it simply smelt fresh. The Hot Honey Hand Cream was the first item to be passed around all the girls in the office, we really enjoyed the scented cream, it wasn’t over the top, it was just enough.

I took my little bag of goodies home with and packed it in with the rest of my gear for the Alpine Classics, explaining to my travelling companions that I don’t normally carry this many cosmetics but in the name of research I was happy to increase my luggage.

I did sit down with The Workout Zone whilst my team mates where slogging it out up Tawonga Gap and into Bright for the final climb up Mt Buffalo, I read all the instructions first, there was a lot of tubes and I wanted to make sure that I was doing everything right.

Step 1 is The Purifying Cleaner, it contains hydrogenated jojoba oil and beads, put simply though it’s a really nice cleanser that isn’t hard on your skin, the beads are minimal and tiny, just enough to remove your make up and any grime from sitting in rush hour or enduring your city’s public transport.

You then choose between indoors or outdoors, if you’re anything like me, you hate being at your desk and refuse to exercise indoors, then Step 2, the Outdoor Facial Repair Cream is to ensure that you are well protected from the sun, it has an SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum Sunscreen which hydrates your skin as you work out.

If you’re a gym person and can’t stand the thought of 4 seasons in one work out, then Step 2, the Indoor Facial Repaid Cream, rub a small amount into the skin before you exercise and you’re ready to go. I noticed a change in the way my skin looked, I think it was brighter and there was more glow; I felt better because of it. I headed over to the Workout Zone website to see what they were reporting and found the following regarding research they conducted in Australia and New Zealand.

"91% of 26 GFX instructors in New Zealand and Australia self-reported an improvement in skin hydration and 65% self-reported an improvement in skin ‘look’ after using the WORKOUT ZONE Indoor System for 4 weeks."

I think its excellent that The Workout Zone has been passed on to industry professionals for trialing, especially instructors and trainers who are required to present such a healthy image every day.

Step 3 is the Luxuriant Body Wash, and it’s unlike the normal stock you see in the supermarket. After your workout and before your shower you massage the product all over, including your face if you like, go nuts. The result is (can’t believe I’m saying this) nice and shiny and smooth soft skin, sure it’s a little bit different, but the result is surprising which is what we want in a product.

The Luxuriant Body Wash is a little different, because you apply it before you go into the shower, unlike other of the shelf products that you apply whilst in the shower. I think, from my own personal experience that applying the product before getting in the shower actually helps the skin absorb the product, whereas the body washes that are used in the shower wouldn’t be as effective as it washes of as quickly as you put it on.

Step 4 is the Rebalance Cream, you can massage it everywhere or just use it for your face. It’s also a great primer for under your makeup, and if you’re keen to tighten the budget or make more room on your bathroom shelves, then this product does more than enough to earn its keep. You also get soft smooth skin for your efforts, without that oily shine.

Last but not least is the Hot Honey Handcream, there are extracts of chilly in it, so do keep it away from your eyes and mouth, its smells fantastic without being an over the top scent, it isn’t an oily moisturizer, it has a nice and thick consistency.

My thoughts?
I’m really into time management, I have a lot of things to do and find that if something takes too long then I either get distracted by it or I loose interested very quickly.

These products were fantastic, I can use the Purifying Cleanser in the shower and when I jump out of the shower, the Outdoor Facial Repair first thing in the morning is quick and takes 30 seconds, if that.

The Luxuriant Body Wash, is a little different for me. I am used to using the body wash in the shower so this was a change, but I liked it. I think it does take a little bit of extra time to add this into your day, but I’m only talking about 3 minutes, take the chance and try it.

The Rebalance Cream is great and does what its meant to do, as a person who doesn’t wear make-up unless I’m heading to a fancy party or Friday night drinks, this product finishes my daily schedule and most importantly without a lot of fuss.

Throw the Hot Honey Handcream in your purse and use it on the tram, pass it around the office and make sure everyone knows what the product is called. I believe they should make more products with honey; just the scent alone gives you that 3pm sugar that you’ve been trying to satisfy.

The cost for the complete package, ‘Workout System Complete’, is $111.70 AUD, you can purchase online from their website www.workoutzone.co.nz. You don’t need to spend huge amounts to refill products when you run out of something as each product is available individually from their online store.

I found a place in the sun (finally) and removed my water logged shoes and socks and slipped on the Feetures! socks; they have combined super soft merino wool with bamboo fibres to create a sock that felt like a little bit a heaven, they were softer and smoother than you would think possible.

The Feetures! are a cycling specific sock. I have always had problems  finding the right sock to go in the right shoe as well as getting hot feet on hot days, these problems are eliminated with these socks. My main test was a 5km fun run in Wangaratta followed by a ride to Glenrowen in 35 degree heat, this gave me a good indication of how they would last.

The primary purpose of the sock is to be long lasting, to the point where you replace them just because you want more; they do feel that good. The bamboo fibres make the socks ultra-breathable, whilst the merino wool allows the sock regulate itself to temperature of your feet. As body odours are suppressed, they can even be worn more than once before washing. The merino wool is ultra-soft no matter how many times that you wash them or don’t wash them.

Feetures! believe in their product so much that they give a lifetime guarantee, their products are designed to withstand repeated wearing and washing, and to maintain their fit and feel over the lifetime of the product. If your socks fail to live up to this standard, then you can return them for an exchange or a full refund.

My take?
Fantastic! I would personally keep them for cold days as I am accustomed to wearing thin socks in the summer, these socks really were soft, practical and warm. You can get them in white or a darker olive colour which suits me, I’m forever getting my white clothes dirty, and the olive colour hides the dirt nicely. I’ve worn them running and cycling and they haven’t rubbed in my shoe, nor have they slipped. My feet have felt safely encased in them and surprisingly comfortable.

Even though they’re cycling specific socks, I wear them running, walking and to bed if my feet need warming up; they’re a cycling specific sock that does more than one job.

The tech talk?
- Thin flat knit construction takes up minimal room in the shoe
- The PerfectToe? (No irritating toe seam)
- SnugFit Technology? Unique Power Bands of Lycra? hug your entire foot for  support. This snug, supportive fit eliminates movement to prevent blisters
- Durasoft, the blend of SuperSoft Merino wool and rayon from bamboo, wicks away moisture and naturally eliminates odour to provide unsurpassed comfort
- Graduated compression in crew top keeps sock in place and aids in circulation

The socks retail from $25.00 and Features! are distributed in Australia by Kikass Trading, you can find information on where to purchase them at www.feetures.com.au