It's all about the shoes-food-pedals and it's not cheap!

About a week away from the event and everything is getting down to the wire.

One part of the event is the bike, and to be competitive (read finish in under several hours) your bicycle needs to be at a certain level. I had bought a road bike last year, while in it's current form was perfectly fine, but doing 38 miles, it could use some improvement.

Without getting into detail, I had to upgrade the pedals, the seat, and some extra hydration storage. I'll explain each in some detail below:

Pedals: I had a casual set of cage pedals. To be fast(er) the pedals of choice are the ones that require your shoes to connect to them. Spent 250.00 for pedals and shoes.

Seat: I think I made a mistake here. I made mention that I was doing a Triathlon and that my current seat really isn't comfortable. The attendant at Ridgewood Cycle recommended a seat by Profile Design that is made for Triathlons. Well, after riding it, yes, it's made for Triathlons, but it certainly isn't that much more comfortable. I guess professional triathletes do not have nerves in their posteriors. I'll stick it out on this seat. Cost 92.00.

Hydration and Food: Hey, swimming a mile, riding 38 miles, and running 6 miles means that you are burning through some serious energy. So I purchased another hydration cannister that attaches to the handlebars. As I'm riding, I can bend forward and get fluids out of a long straw. The other item I purchased is called a Bento Box. This is a small container that can hold a couple of power bars and energy gells. It's attached to the handlebar stems and provides easy access to foods. Total costs 50.00 for both items. Both were from Profile Design.

Now, do I expect to be the next Lance, rocketing along at 25 miles per hour? Nah, I just want to finish!