Choose a 2x9 Crankset for XC racing.

Have you noticed that many pro XC racers are setting up their race steeds with a 2x9 crankset? In some cases you do need a BB30 bike, but there are a few options out there for square-taper and ISIS bottom brackets.

To help out, I put together a quick introduction into setting up a 2x9 drivetrain on your bike.

See it here: Guide to 2x9 Cranksets for XC Racing

Feel free to comment here if you have suggestions on what else I should add.

New-School Way to Scout the Giro Routes

Here's a great quote that was in today's RoadBikeRider.com ezine:

Overheard: "I haven't seen anything first-hand, but I've looked at it through Google Maps and Google Earth." -- Christian Vande Velde, Team Garmin captain for the Giro, on the new-tech way to scout race routes.

If you remember, I used this same method a couple years ago, as mentioned in my "Pre-Riding a Race Course is so Old-School" article. It's a nifty tool, but there's no substitute for an actual pre-ride.

Sandisk Sansa Clip - 2GB for $22.99

If you're up to date on my product reviews, you know I am a fan of the Sansa Clip mp3 player. I set up two good ones, but the third one (mine) has terrible battery life and needs charged every night.

But I'd be tempted to buy another if the price is right. I just saw eCost has a red Sansa Clip for $22.99. It's red. 2 GB. Tempting, since that's roughly 50% off.

It's recertified, but that probably makes it better than new. I've purchased other recertified players from Sandisk and they've been fine.

Anyway, that's my deal of the day!