Coolbert's Bicycling

OCBC Malaysia Ride 2011 Completed!

2011-10-17T16:33:00.002+08:00

Despite the controversial issues by the organiser stopping the "The Challenge Ride 52km" at 8.25am due to heavy traffic. I managed to complete the 5 laps ride at 1hour 46mins and 27seconds.

It was a great ride and riding in KL closed roads is something special. You cant easily ride in KL main roads without such organisation. Anyway, it was like a race then it suppose to be a casual ride as lots of cyclist is speeding their way to complete the course.

Well, Sam in 43 placing overall and i'm at 345 placing out of 630 completed riders. More than 1000 riders did not complete their full 5 laps course as the traffic is getting heavier especially Chow Kit area.

Kwong Yew were ahead of me but officially he miss count for another lap that he suppose to ride so he finish at 1hour 34mins for 4 laps only.

Kong Hing complete his ride at 1hour 43mins for 4 laps due to the organiser cutting short the ride.

Yong and his girlfriend finish their ride too at 1hour 40mins for 3 laps before being force to stop too.

OCBC Malaysia Ride 2011 completed!

OCBC Ride 2011

2011-09-25T15:36:00.002+08:00

Anyone joining this year ride?

YES, 6 riders confirmed.

a. Ting Kong Hing
b. Sam Tien Hoong
c. Ho Kwong Yew
d. Albert Toh
e. Yong Yee Wan
f. Molly Rayappen

All ready to go....

Cameron Highlands Conquer Again!

2011-09-22T07:11:00.004+08:00

its been more than a year since i wrote my cameron highlands climb stories. Looks like this time i did it again! More than 1 hour quickier...

15 September 2011 - a day before Malaysia Day

As usual, a last minute decision had being made between Yong, Sam(the come back - more stories about him), Kwong Yew, Kong Hing, Ah Choii & Kumar. Everyone is eager to climb this long Category 1 climb.

Just before the night fall, i receive 2 news from Kumar & Kwong Yew that will not able to join this year ride due to some house work commitment. You know lar, wife not around - the man will be the housewife.

Looks like I, Yong, Sam, Ah Choii and Kong Hing will be conquering this Cameron Highlands climb tomorrow. Hopefully i made it. (there is lots of worries in my mind)

16 September 2011 - Malaysia Day

Happy Malaysia Day a wish to all Malaysian that are celebrating it.

So as early as 4.00am, i wake up and gear up all my biking stuff. Yong arrive at 4.30am and we assemble to rack on his car. Sam arrive 10mins later and before 5am, we make our move to KFC. (for breakfast? no...)

Ah Choii were waiting for us and Kong Hing no where to be seen (probably decided not to join last minute). After a short chit-chat, we travel to Simpang Pulai, Ipoh where the pain begins. We stop at Tronoh petrol kiosk to get some chocolate bar (replacing true PowerBar). We decided to have a breakfast here instead in Simpang Pulai.

We have a good laugh while having our breakfast without knowing the time already at 6.20am. We quickly continue our journey and reach Simpang Pulai mamak stall at around 7am. We were surprise seeing lots of other rider were already there to ride to Cameron as well. There is UCI group, Batu Gajah group and a bunch of touring guys.

After a quick change, 4 set of tires begin to burn the road. We stop by at Petronas petrol kiosk to remove some excessive weight (bathroom..hehe). It was 7.30am and there are already other riders passing us...so here i am, together with Yong, Sam & Ah Choii will be tackling this category 1 climb for 5 hours (as i expected).

Getting burn by the hot sun, to suffer muscle pain, neck & shoulder sore only for one and only achievement, to reach the top of Cameron Highlands.

More on riding stories ahead! Be right back...

Missing in Action

2011-09-22T07:05:00.002+08:00

Sorry to all of you that never stop visiting my blog. Being missing in action from cycling for almost a year now due to my current work commitment. Fron now onwards...i'm back into writing blog. Hopefully it stays.

Cameron highlands climb stories ahead, stay tuned!

CFAL 3rd edition miss out

2011-09-22T07:01:00.000+08:00

Looks like i miss out this year CFAL 3rd edition in Penang Island due to work commitment. Will be joining you guys in the 4th edition next year!

Bike's Corner

2010-09-17T14:11:00.001+08:00

check out my bike's corner...(at a corner of my current shop)...hehehe...

My Current Bike

2010-08-25T12:04:00.003+08:00

Not a good one but boleh la...since i'm in Boleh Land....hahaha.

Cameron Highlands Climb Conquer!

2010-08-16T10:24:00.004+08:00

Cameron Highlands Climb Conquer via Simpang Pulai!
Yes, i did it...

Its been a week since i plan to climb Cameron Highlands via Simpang Pulai (new road) instead of Tapah town. Since puasa month had just started, so i decided to invite all the chinese/indian riders to ride up.

However, Kumar and Ah Chooi has plan on the weekend, so i decided to go with Yong and Kwong Yew. Unfortunately, Kwong Yew chicken out just a day before the ride. Instead of giving up this ride, i decided to continue the ride. With only 2 of us, we confirmed and gear up the bikes, tools, supplies just a night before the ride. Quite a last minute decision actually. I managed to install the roof rack and pack everything i slept at 12 midnight.

15th of August 2010. Time 5.30am. I woke up and get myself ready. Yong arrive at 6.00am, i set up the bikes and without losing any more time, we set up our journey while looking for petrol kiosk to buy some supplies. Last minute decision didnt give me enough time to prepare.

We stop by at Tronoh Shell petrol kiosk and get some Snickers bar (thats the only thing i can think of). We continue and park our car at mamak stall at Simpang Pulai town. Suprisingly, while we are having a quick breakfast before gearing up and climb, we saw a bunch of riders setting out up to Cameron Highlands too.

After a quick breakfast, we set up and start our longest uphill journey of 51km till Green View Garden up in Cameron Highlands. The weather is quite warm as the sun already high up on the sky. 7.45am is the exact time for our 2 road bikes tires start to roll.

Crossing the Simpang Pulai intersection trafficlight, i reset my trip meter on my bike and here i go, 51km to destination.

Stay tuned for ride details...

Penang Ride Rider's Confirmed

2010-08-12T16:42:00.006+08:00

7 guys from Sitiawan Cycling Club is joining this year "Ride with Chief Minister 2010" in Penang. A total distance 80km covered the whole Penang Island.

1. Albert Toh
2. Yong Yee Wan
3. Ho Kwong Yew
4. Francis Diong
5. Ong Eng Chong
6. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan
7. Ong Lay Foo a.k.a Ming Meng (replacing Khairul Anuar place)

Retired:
1. Ting Kong Hing
2. Khairul Anuar (Depart to Australia for Tour Down Under training)

Registration officially CLOSED! For those still interested, we'll be seeing you next year and for those already registered, see you guys there...

Penang Round Island Ride Launch!

2010-07-29T11:25:00.003+08:00

To all Sitiawan riders, this is the opportunity to ride Penang Island (a total of 80km round island)

Let's gear up and register yourself before its too late...

Ipoh Century Ride 2010 (2 days to go)

2010-07-29T11:17:00.004+08:00

Looks like i'll be missing out this year ride as i have some personal matters coming up this weekend. Have to chicken out before i die on-the-spot on this 100 mile century ride.

Also from Sitiawan, Yong Yee Wan had to be away from this ride too due to work commitment.

Ho Kwong Yew is saying good bye too for this year century ride (the first for him) due to ankle/knee injury that have to skip from biking for at least 2 months.

However, i would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone good luck and ride safe on this IPOH CENTURY RIDE 2010!

Enjoy the ride and ride safe. Chao for now...(see you guys in Penang Round Island Ride)

Round Island Ride (Penang Ride with Chief Minister)

2010-07-07T01:26:00.001+08:00

80km with 2 major climbs round Penang Island.

LAUNCHING SOON!

Stay tuned...Be prepared!!!

Ipoh Century Ride 2010 (August 1)

2010-07-07T01:16:00.002+08:00

To all Sitiawan riders,

Registration for Sitiawan Cycling Club has official closed - whoever wanted to join, you'll be on your own. Confirmation riders name for this year 100-mile century ride coming from Sitiawan.

Representing Sitiawan Cycling Club
Santhirakumar a/l Kathan - Kuota Kebel
Mohd Khairul Anuar - Trek 4.9
Yong Yee Wan - Kuota KOM

last but not least -
Albert Toh - Giant T-Mobile

Our new riders for Ipoh century ride
Ho Kwong Yew - Battaglin
Jeffrey Mujah - Matrix TT
Navy riders - you guess

Missing out this year ride
Ong Lay Foo (aka Ming Meng) - due to injury
Ting Kong Hing - due to injury
Remy - competing in other event
Jasni - undergoing course overseas
Ridzal - undergoing training overseas

Congratulations to all riders that made your name into the list...

Let's prepare for this torture ride and enjoy the pain! errrrr....3 weeks to go

Ipoh Century Ride (Collecting Entry Fees RM100)

2010-06-04T10:28:00.005+08:00

To All cycling buddies, for Sitiawan Cycling Club (SCC).

No time to waste, no time to think, its a final decision to make.

We are collecting entry fees RM100 for those who are interested of joining this year 100-mile cycling event.

Contact me at 014-6043366 (Albert)

Or Visit me at

I SEVEN TECH Computer Shop

170, Jalan PPMP 10, Pusat Perniagaan Manjung Point 1, 32040 Seri Manjung, Perak

(Behing Giant Hypermarket)

Who dare the challenge?

The Return of Phamacist Hing

2010-05-28T22:58:00.005+08:00

Short Easy Ride - (30km)

Kg Baru - Simpang Lima (relatively flat with some rolling hills)

It was Wesak Day - As today was a public holiday, i decided to have a short ride with my old buddies. At 7.00am, i was joined by Kwong Yew, Yong and the return (Kong Hing) after he left his bike on the wall for almost 6 months. Too many programs for him lately - motor-biking, gathering, reunion dinner, travelling...bla, bla, bla...

As per plan, the tire start to burn exactly at 7.15am. We decided to go for a slow easy ride as Kong Hing has not being on the bike for half a year now. However, the pace picks up fast as we already pacing at 28km/h averagely.

As Yong and Kwong Yew were leading the pack, I and Kong Hing has a lot of catch up stories to talk. As we turned into Kg Bahru, we were left behind for about 150 metres. I try to catch up with the front 2 of them before the rolling hills began.

Suprisingly, Kong Hing is tailing closely at my back as i was doing 37km/h closing the gap. Dont play-play...although he's being away from the bike, never under estimated his big engine CC power output.

As usual, Kwong Yew attack on the slope and this time i attack with him and never let him passed. Even though it was a short slope, i was practically tired and together we ride into Simpang Lima. I was doing a quick fast pacing with Yong as he mostly doing the pulling job just to avoid Kwong Yew launching an attack.

Approaching Simpang Tiga, Kong Hing and Kwong Yew slowing down, tired i guess...still a very good cyclist as or not on the bike for 6 months and still able to tail us for nearly 25km. We slow down while waiitng for them to catch us. We stop at Kg Koh and have a good laugh and heavy breakfast...hahaha, we eat a lot!

The return of Kong Hing (our extraordinary man)

Rider of the day : Kong Hing

Gunung Tunggal (60km)

2010-05-25T22:56:00.001+08:00

Rider of the day : Anuar

Stay tuned for ride details...

Gelung Pepuyu (80km)

2010-05-18T16:51:00.001+08:00

Its been two weeks pass the most best ride ever held, Interstate 2010 organise by PCC Group. As usual, Sunday morning, i, Yong, Kumar and Kwong Yew decided to ride on our own as Anuar back to his kampung as he just got himself a newborn baby girl...Congrats to him!

As per plan, today's ride will be aproximately about 80km, passing by Gelung Pepuyu estate with flats and rolling hills. We start at 7.20am and soon we are already pacing ourself in one straight line leading by Kwong Yew. At average 31km/h, we rotating between each other. Passing by Kg Sg Wangi, Ayer Tawar, Kg Jering...no attack has been done.

After Beruas junction, Yong increase the average at 33km/h before turning into Gelung Pepuyu estate route. I was tailing behind the group as the group doesnt seem to slow down. Yong increase the speed again up to 35km/h before the first small hill...crazy kah?

As i saw Kwong Yew preparing for the attack (as he use to be) i overtook Yong while forcing myself maintaining the speed just enough for Kwong Yew giving up his attack.

Approachiing second hill, I attack and leave Kwong Yew behind. Yong and Kumar following closely behind me. Descending the second hill, Yong seems strong and lead the whole group while Kwong Yew catching up.

Kwong Yew attack again on the third slope and i tailing him behind. However, after the last 2 effort, i guess i'm out of breath. I bonked and almost black-out half way the slope causing me dropping way back behind.

Thanks to Kumar, he waited for me while i slowly recovering. I managed to close the gap with Yong and Kwong Yew after the fast downhill but i was way too empty and tired. On the final rolling hills, 3 of them smoke me and i was riding alone till the next junction.

The other stories:
While i was drop far back, Kumar and Kwong Yew decided to have their own KOM "King of Mountain" stage. They attack each other on the final slope and wanted to crown themself the "polka dot jersey". Yong steadily arrive at the junction while Kumar and Kwong Yew debating about who is suppose to wear the KOM jersey. Funny ar?

I arrive few minutes later with no water to spare. 2 bottles of water finish in 50km journey. Am i a drinker?

Anyway, we decided to go on and stop at Ayer Tawar for breakfast. With empty bottle and emtpy stomach, i go on hoping to stop at a nearby stall for a quick drink. I was tailing behind while Yong and Kumar do most of the pulling upfront. Kwong Yew decided to stay behind too although i think his tank has not empty yet...preparing for another attack maybe?

No luck for me as most of the stall close today so i decided to push myself till Ayer Tawar, about 20km away. Yong and Kumar is pulling hard and steadily at 33km/h with headwind towards us. Two of them has been rotating for almost 11km and i decided to do the job. Kwong Yew seems not helping the group and i wonder what he is up to.

I lead the group for the remaining 2-3km up till the Beruas junction. Once out to the open road towards Ayer Tawar, i decided to go on leading as I was feeling quite good (i can smell teh ais up front in Ayer Tawar) hehehe...With some help of mix wind, sometimes tail wind, sometimes head wind...i push myself up to 37km/h all the way to Ayer Tawar. Yong decided to help and he leads for another quarter of the distance to Ayer Tawar. Finally i saw Kwong Yew speeding up (now i know what he is up to...for final sprint) Without any chance, i push myself to go on together with the help of Kumar overtook Kwong Yew and left him behind...hehehe. Looks like he wont be wearing green jersey for today.

I, Kumar, Yong and Kwong Yew stop for breakfast in Ayer Tawar, join by Ong Lay Foo aka Ming Meng (mixed MTB and road kaki). We have a good laugh before continuing back to Sitiawan. Kumar is rushing home so i decided to lead again. Steadily at 35km/h, we have a quick ride up to Kg Sg Wangi when i decided to turn into Sitiawan instead. Kumar left us and 3 of us together riding into Sitiawan town.

Yong do most of the leading job and finally, Kwong Yew legs giving up and i decided to follow Yong. However, we slow down for Kwong Yew before entering Sitiawan town. Thinking of stoping for another teh ais but the weather seems not allowing so I decided to ride straight back home.

Warming Up Ride

2010-05-11T22:43:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 9th May - Its been a week after the best ride of the year, Interstate 2010 (K.Kangsar-P.Banding-Kota Bahru-Kenyir Lake). Kumar decided to lose his legs muscles so i decided to join today's short ride.At 7.30am, I, Kumar and Ho with his new full carbon bike (Battaglin) begins our ride heading to Kampung Baru. Ride speed pick up after passing the first bridge at Kg. Acheh. Kumar was leading at 33km/h and Ho attack at 36km/h. I slow down the pace by leading at 30km/h while trying to recover.

I and Kumar takes our turn to lead the 3 of us while Ho stays behind. I was tired and Kumar did most of the hard work.Coming out from Kg Sg.Wangi, we slow down again before turning into Spg Lima junction. Without any time to waste, i and Kumar took our turn to lead again while doing average speed at 33km/h before hitting 40km/h towards Kg Koh town.

I decided to stop for a quick rest however Kumar wanted to push on for another 10km. I rejoin with Kumar and Ho but i'm feeling very tired so i slow the paced down. Ho suprisingly attack and hit 50km/h towards the 40km mark before our stop for teh-tarik. Kumar was tailing him and i decided to let them go as my legs begin to cramp. Side-by-side they were sprinting before Ho suddenly decided to turn back home immediately after the sprint.

I and Kumar was suprise Ho manage to sprint at 50km/h. Looks like he will be our new sprinter with his new bike. Will be riding again next week.

Rider of the day : Ho Kwong Yew - Battaglin Carbon

KRI Ipoh Century Ride Launch!

2010-05-03T12:54:00.002+08:00

Stay tuned for details!

Being Away and now I'm Back!

2010-05-03T12:02:00.005+08:00

Sorry to all bloggers, readers, KPOs....

I'm been away from the blog for some time as i'm preparing for my new shop. (not tour de france though)

Being away from biking for nearly a month and i started to ride last weekend. May 1, Labour Day.

As others were away for PCC Interstate ride, others were on holidays, i geared up and get myself onto my bike and rode. Its being a painful day, however...i'm trying hard to get back into my rhythm.

Will be back riding with you guys soon!

PCC Interstate 2010 Conquer!

2010-05-03T11:52:00.004+08:00

2 riders from Sitiawan has successfully conquer the most grueling long distance interstate ride ever held. From Kuala Kangsar - Pulau Banding - Kota Bahru - Lake Kenyir.

1. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan
2. Yong Yee Wan

Many thanks for our supporting Crew - Patrick

Nearly 500km, 3 days in a row with two Category 1 climb over the "Banjaran Titiwangsa" into Terengganu, Kenyir Lake.

Congratulations to them! to suffer and pain for the victory of "The best ride!"

::applause:: ::applause:: ::applause::

PCC INTERSTATE 2010

2010-03-20T00:13:00.003+08:00

It's about 5 weeks to this year Interstate Ride 2010 covering almost 500km in 3 days.

Everyone is talking about this spectacular event that will be taking riders from West across to East of Malaysia.

At last, 3 confirmation riders that will be tackling one of the hardest event ever held. Riders representing Sitiawan name list.

1. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan

2. Yong Yee Wan

3. Albert Toh Boon Huat

Wish us luck and safe ride to all participant. It's gonna be another history made by Sitiawan rider to complete this year interstate ride.

Fast Ride

2010-03-15T00:26:00.000+08:00

Route : Kg.Baru - Spg Lima (30km) flat with rolling hills.

Rider of the day : Ah Choii

JMFR Test Ride (100km)

2010-02-24T23:08:00.001+08:00

Rider of the day : Fazli Navy Rider

Stay tuned for ride details.

Gunung Tunggal (60km)

2010-02-08T16:39:00.000+08:00

Rider of the day : Doc Kumar

Stay tuned for ride details.

Teluk Senangin Ride

2010-02-05T14:55:00.002+08:00

Sunday, 31 January 2009 - There were 2 rides today in Manjung, first group is heading for Janamanjung Fellowship Ride 2010 route and second group is going for Teluk Senangin. As my legs still sore due to jogging yesterday, i decided to go for Teluk Senangin ride.

Teluk Senangin ride is relatively easy, there are few small climbs heading towards a beautiful seaside suitable for fishing. 8 of us rolled out with myself, Jasni, Ridzal, Remy and 4 young state riders. Together we ride into Tengku Bainun bridge where the first attack were made by one of the your state rider follow by Jasni.

As my legs still weak, i decided to take my own pace with Rizal. We regroup with the others remaining rider, however two of them are far ahead. Riding pace begin to speed up leading by the young state rider. I took over right after the Damar Laur junction and trying to close the gap. However, my legs doesnt seem too coorperate and i drop off just after turning into Teluk Senangin junction. For about 6km, i ride with Ridzal only until our stop near the beaches.

We took a long rest before heading back to Manjung. Once again, i drop off once i hit the open road before the bridge. I slow down and wait for Jasni. For the next 15km, i ride with Jasni till Manjung while the others are no where to be seen.

This sunday will be another long distance ride arrange by Doc Kumar.

Note : I'm organizing a small group ride up to Cameron Highlands in the month of Mac 2010, so lets prepare for this fun ride.

Road Bikes Components, Parts & Accessories

2010-02-03T10:59:00.002+08:00

GROUPSET for all roadie -

For shimano lover,
Shimano Ultegra 2009/2010 - RM2650
Shimano 105 2010 (in stock) - RM1880

For SRAM enthusiast,
SRAM Rival - call
SRAM Force - call

WHEELSET for all roadie -

For Shimano lover,
Shimano WH-7850-C50 Clincher - RM2450
High profile rim, good for flat & maintaining constant speed.
Weight 1695g

Shimano WH-7850-C24 Clincher - RM1450
Low profile rim, good for climbing & quick acceleration.
Weight 1392g

For TOKEN enthusiast,Token T50 Tubular - RM3800
High profile rim, good for flat & maintaining constant speed.

For Mavic enthusiast,
Mavic Aksium Race (Silver) - RM880
Entry level wheelset, good for all rounder terrain
Weight - 1950g

I'm currently carrying FIZIK saddles -
a) FIZIK Aliante Gamma XM (259g) RM365
a) FIZIK Arione CX (199g) RM509
a) FIZIK K1 Carbon RM1098
a) FIZIK Gobi XM (229g) RM479

TOKEN Bartape - RM40
Black, Red, Yellow, White, Blue

The Continental Grand Prix 4000 - RM235 each
Successor to the GP 3000, road tire is a clincher weighing in at a scant 205 grams a piece. With a maximum riding pressure at 120psi and a recommended running pressure of 110-115psi the GP 4000 has very little rolling resistance. The GP 4000 comes in a variety of colors. Some of the colors include yellow, black, metallic blue/black, blue/black, red/black, and silver/black.

4 of us only for 80km?

2010-01-28T08:34:00.004+08:00

Sunday, 24 January 2010 – I was prepare for today’s ride. I was keen to test out partial of JMFR2010 route. As I cycle my way to the meeting point, I believe today will be another fast ride. At Giant Hypermarket, I met Doc Kumar and I was surprisingly to see only both of us that will be riding today. It is 7.10am and the sky is still dark. As we waited, Anuar and Yong came and around 20 minutes of waiting, 4 of us decided to continue our ride.

4 of us only for 80km? Oh gosh…I’ve begin to worry that its gonna be a very hard day. As we ride passing Ayer Tawar, the average speed is about 34km/h. As we rotate taking the lead, my left leg begin to feel cramping as we enter Gelung Pepuyu junction.

When I hit the first climb, my legs cramp and causes me to slow down while others is leaving me a gap. Passing lots of rolling hill, I still feel no good until I was left behind for about 600metres. Luckily Anuar, Doc Kumar and Yong decided to slow down and waited for me as we passes the long winding hilly route before joining into main road to Beruas.

We stop for chit-chatting at the junction before Anuar decided to go on looking for water as he is insufficient of fluid. As we roll back towards Ayer Tawar, our average speed is at 31km/h. As usual, we took turns to lead the pack. Doc Kumar, Anuar and Yong are very strong as they lead most of the way. Anuar stop at a malay stall for refilling while we waited for him.

Coming out from Beruas intersection towards Ayer Tawar, I decided to take lead as I can feel tailwinds is getting stronger and stronger. I lead at 36km/h all the way passing Ayer Tawar before Yong took over. We decided not to stop at Ayer Tawar but at Giant Hypermarket for breakfast instead.

Yong maintain his speed at 36km/h and my legs cramping seems to came back amd I was struggling to follow the whole group. Passing by Kg Acheh, as Yong were leading, Doc Kumar make his attack follow by Anuar. I jumped out of the saddle and trying to close the gap with Anuar. I guess my legs is no near to Anuar’s as I couldn’t close the gap although I was at 48km/h.

Turning in to Giant Hypermarket, we slow down and came in all together to Nana Tanjung for breakfast. We have a good laugh and it was another great Sunday ride. Missing lots of other riders today, hopefully to see them on next ride. Total riding time 2h 36mins with the average of 30.4km/h.

Come join us ride as we preparing for Janamanjung Fellowship Ride 2010 and PCC Interstate 2010 ride on this April.

PCC INTERSTATE 2010 30th April - 2nd May 2010

2010-01-22T15:35:00.004+08:00

Although there is no official announcement yet, rumors are flying around that the PCC Insterstate 2010 will be roaming the East coast. Numerous sources point the date to the Labor day weekend and number of participants will be limited to 200 only. They are already accpeting pre-registration. Chances are the seats to be full before the official announcement quite high as what happened to the last Intestate 2009. So start pulling your string in PCC to get your names in the list if you were keen to join the ride!

The distance is rumored to be about 420km(as shown in the attached profile chart). It will start from Kuala Kangsar and ends at Tasik Kenyir. Below is the most probable route:
Day 1 Kuala Kangsar to Tasik Banding (145km approx)
Day 2 Tasik Banding to Tanah Merah (130km approx)
Day 3 Tanah Merah to Tasik Kenyir (145km approx)

Bikes (Side Business)

2010-01-22T13:13:00.008+08:00

As you guys kove the sports as i am, i'm doing some side business in bikes.
Located in Sitiawan, Perak.

To all Manjung, Sitiawan, Lumut riders...whether you are a pros, recretional rider, weekend warrior or just staying healthy via bicycling....you are most welcome!

I'm Albert and i ride every weekend. All my buddies comes from all types - from young to adult, pro's or beginner, MTB or roadie, you most welcome to join our club.

I'm currently holding major high-end brands like - GIANT, CANNONDALE, SCOTT and etc...you know it, you name it. I also holding bike parts and components like - SHIMANO, MAVIC, ZIPP, TOKEN, FIZIK and etc.

From complete bikes to parts and accessories, whatever you want, you name it.

For any inquiries, bike parts, complete bikes, accessories or just chit-chat, call me at 014-6043366 (albert)

Ride with MTB Manjung

2010-01-19T09:46:00.001+08:00

Sunday, 17 Jan 2010 - As i planned to go for another solo ride via Gelung Pepuyu, i received a test message late Saturday nite. There will be a group ride via Changkat Keruing. As my legs still weak, i decided to follow them, hopefully to complete the whole ride by staying inside the peloton.
About 15 riders for today ride, mixture of MTB and roadie. As i suspected, today’s ride will be mostly control by roadie. However, before hitting the Tengku Bainun bridge, the MTB group is leading up front.

There is a massive attack from the roadie on the bridge leaving the MTB guys way back on the climb. I however trying to stay on the fast group but my legs really giving me a hard time. The fast roadie slow down right after the bridge and i managed to regroup. About 7 roadie together we pick up speed again passing Damar Laut, Segari and soon come to a stop at Pantai Remis intersection. It was hard work, but it really worth it.

We rest and waited for the MTB group to arrive. We stop for 15minutes before the MTB groups leave first. They attack and we are doing at our best to close the gap. Strong headwinds causing the roadie group having difficult time chasing the front MTB group. Passing Bukit Tunggal, 2 roadie escape from our group and attack. I lead the rear peloton and soon Yong took over.

With the speed of 32km/h, i assume i’ll never able to join the MTB group. Remy came from the rear and attack at 42km/h. He overtook us and my peloton split again. I, Yong and some other roadie manage to stay behind Remy. With steady speed, we finally close the gap however Remy decided to go on. I stay in MTB group and rest my legs before following 2 roadie on the attack. With hot sun and strong headwinds, soon my legs giving up. 3 out of 6 MTB guys came from my back and i stay behind them for almost 3-4km.

Passing Kg Raja Hitam, i lead the group of 3 roadie up to Ayer Tawar junction. 1km to finish, both of them breakaway and i decided to cruise only the whole way till Ayer Tawar town. Together we waited for the remaining MTB guys to arrive before cruising into Ayer Tawar town.

Most of them stop for breakfast in Ayer Tawar. I, Yong and Kevin decided to stop at Sitiawan instead. It was a great ride with MTB guys. I didnt really clocked my time as we have done few stop to rest.

Taman Bukit Maju, Lumut

2010-01-11T09:48:00.000+08:00

Bukit Maju is located in the entrance of Lumut town. It s a 1km stretch uphill towards the top of the hill. Its a very good place to build up your legs muscle as the slope getting steeper towards half way point of the climb.

For those looking for a route to train your climbing skills, Bukit Maju it is. It was been so long since i did my last climb here. It was hard, but i felt good.

Solo Ride....Again

2010-01-03T22:11:00.001+08:00

It was Sunday, 3 January 2010. Step into the 3rd day of year 2010! I decided to go for a ride with my other fellow riders that just came back from tackling in the Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride in Penang on New Year day. Guess the luck riding with them doesn’t come true as it was down pour in the morning.

At 4.30pm, suddenly I decided to go for a short ride. While no one is riding in the evening, I guess it’s a solo ride again for me today.

I had just ride 40km few days ago and decided to go for another loop, same route but in the opposite direction. I left my house at 4.40pm and make my way to Kg Koh, Simpang Tiga, Simpang Lima, Kg Sg Wangi, Kg Baru and Kg Acheh. Riding in the evening its completely different than riding in the morning as the sun is still shining bright. The weather is so hot and very windy too. I have to ride into headwind for almost 80% of today’s ride.

I completed the whole course in a total of time 1h 20m for a 40km solo ride. Although I feel tired, I feel great that I managed to complete the whole course again today. Very small improvement for me.

See you guys soon!

Happy New Year 2010!

2010-01-01T22:09:00.000+08:00

It was Friday, 1 January 2010. New Year Day!

As most of my fellow riders were tackling in the Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride in Penang, I decided to go for a short ride. While Yong is in KL celebrating new year day and Kwong Yew is no where to be contact, I guess it’s a solo ride for me.

I start from my house late around 8.00am and decided to take a 40km one loop through Kg Baru, Kg Sg Wangi, Simpang Lima, Simpang Tiga and Kg Koh. It has been nearly a month I was off from my bike and I wanted to take this slowly.

I completed the whole course in a total of time 1h 25m for a 40km solo ride. Not a good one but I guess I’m getting the feel back into biking. Will ride again soon!

My dream bike

2009-12-19T14:52:00.001+08:00

check this out....

Solo Test Ride

2009-12-18T12:49:00.003+08:00

I was suppose to ride with MCT-Manjung riders for their monthly group ride to Teluk Batik. However, i doesnt feel well so i decided to go for a solo ride after a long rest due to rear wheel spoke broke.

Spoke has been replace and being true by Abg Jamal (Local Bike Shop). I was thinking to go for a slow ride, just to test out the wheels. I rolled out at 7.30am and headed to Lumut town. Passing by Samudera area, i saw Kumar was riding alone on the opposite direction. I make a U-turn and join Kumar for a slow ride to Lumut together.

We went for a loop and headed back early as Kumar need to drive to Melaka on the same day. Although it was a short slow ride, i begin to feel tired and my legs nearly cramp.

Gosh...only 22km and my legs already give up....looks like my bike will be hang permanently on the wall soon.

"The Come Back"

2009-11-22T22:42:00.001+08:00

After a few week of dissapointed for not able to join Powerman Malaysia 2009 event due to last minute injury, i'm decided to come back on the road.

Sunday, 22 Nov 2009 - I decided to ride although the weather seems bad. Its been heavy down pour early in the morning and still drizzling when i gear up and ride to meeting point. Suprisingly, all my other fellow riders is there and ready to roll.After a few short chit-chat of today's ride, we decided to tackle 60km (Gunung Tunggal).

Around 7 of us roll out and we are riding around 35km/h. Kumar & Anuar attack on the Tengku Bainun bridge and i was struggling following them.After the bridge, we were back on the group with kumar upfront leading the peloton. I took over for about 500m before Kwong Yew breakaway. He failed to maintain and decided to make a U-turn back to Sitiawan.I was trying hard to keep up with the remaining group and finally dropped off on the climb before Segari town.

Ridzal is waiting for me after the climb and we decided to ride together.Before reaching Segari town, a loud noise from my rear wheel....Tanggggg!!! Oh my god, my rear wheel spoke broke and my wheels turn sideways. I stop right away by the road side and double check.

My wheels is unrideable and i guess thats the end of my ride for today. I waited for my support car to pick me up and there goes my "come back" day.

POWERMAN Malaysia 2009

2009-11-03T09:58:00.001+08:00

Powerman Malaysia 2009 is here...

Be prepare to suffer, be prepare to be torture, be prepare to feel the pain....

Once you conquer your pain, you'll be rewarded with victory!

This is POWERMAN MALAYSIA!

Cili....Cili....Oowww...Panas!! Panas!!

WITHDRAWN! Looks like i have to withdrawn myself out from this year POWERMAN MALAYSIA 2009 race due to "knee injury". So sad but will be back next year.

GOOD LUCK and RIDE SAFE for those joining. YEEEEHAAAA!!!

RIDE WITH CHIEF MINISTER (PENANG)

2009-10-27T10:57:00.002+08:00

Riding day....

Sunday, 25 Oct - 5.30am I and Yong wake up and begin to gear up our bikes. At 6.15am, Sam is waiting at hotel lobby and he decided to ride with us to the start line in Penang Town Hall. We move out together with Kwong Yew and Kong Hing.

When we arrived at the start line, there is already lots and lots of participant, around 500 riders were already getting themselves warming up for today ride. I’m excited with some nervous and had a feeling it could be really a fast ride.

7.00am sharp, the ride begin with 80km to finish with the time limit of 5 hours. There will be a long fast flat road with windy condition, there will be 2 hills to conquer and rolling hills towards the end before finishing back here at the starting line.

The ride jammed with just 100m in as a lorry is blocking in the middle of the road. All participant had to stop and slowly push passing by the side of the lorry. The ride splits into small pieces. The front peloton is no where to be seen. I ride along side with Yong and soon we were speeding up to get ourself into a bigger peloton. For more than 10km, we were doing 35km/h to 40km/h, chasing the middle peloton as the road is relatively flat. Its quite windy with the morning breeze as we were riding next to the sea.

Passing by Jelutong and into Bayan Lepas area, we turned in and passes Queensbay Mall Shopping Complex. From there, the road became narrower and soon we passing by kampong road with lots of potholes and manholes. We managed to get ourself into a moderate size of peloton with about 15 riders. 22km passes by and the first climb is just 5km away, I have a bumpy ride on my rear wheels. I very sure my rear wheel is punctured and I stop by the road side to inspect. Yong saw me and stop too.

Oops…mistake, my wheels seems to be ok. I and Yong just about to continue our ride but luck doesn’t shine on me again. BOOOOMMMMM!!! A loud noise coming out from my rear wheels and flat out immediately. I stop again and begin to change my tube. However, my tire has a big cut on at the corner.

NOOOOOOO!!! I shouted myself and I know this is the end of my ride. I can replace tube, but I cannot replace my tire. I felt frustrated and sad for not able to continue this ride. Lots of rider passing by and I have no idea what to do.

Sam saw us and he stop by to check on us. Not long after that, Hamid and the gang passes by. However, Kong Hing saw us and stop too but he continue after resting for couple of minutes as I got nothing to do except transporting back to the hotel.

Sam phone his wife for the pick-up and we were sitting down at Caltex Petrol Kiosk chit-chatting. 30 mins passes by and soon the last riders has passes by our side too. While we still waiting for Sam’s wife to pick me up back to the hotel, suddenly, Sam come up with a very good idea. He offer his tire to me and he decided to not to continue riding. (he’s my safer and my hero)

According to him, he will be riding his MTB later and catch us up in opposite direction. My luck shines again and I begin to change his tire into my wheels. Soon we are back on the road with no rider to be seen. Depending on the RELA, they guide us into the correct route and soon we already on the foot of Bukit Genting. Yong were climbing steadily as I were struggling up the hill. We begin to catch up with the few last rider and decided to overtook them on the slope. I’m trying hard to get back my rhythm as I had lost during the stop for about 40minutes. The road up to Bukit Genting is quite bad as the repair construction is still on although its Sunday today.

5km is the distance to the top of Bukit Genting. By the time we passes Bukit Genting, we have already managed to overtook lots of slow rider. Going downhill it’s the best rewards after a hard climb. Coming into Balik Pulau area, I and Yong were changing lead to push ourself faster.

Waterstation – we stop to pick up a few isotonic drinks. We didn’t stop for long and soon we are back on the road to Teluk Bahang. 2nd hill begins just right after a small town. Yong begin his move and Im trying my best to follow his pace. 7km is the distance to conquer the Tropical Fruit Farm hill.

With winding and twisting road up to the Tropical Fruit Farm hill, I’m pushing hard to keep up with Yong pace. We overtake many riders towards to the top of the climb. I’m so happy when I see the green signboard “Tropical Fruit Farm in 800m”, that’s the end of the 7km climb and its all downhill to Batu Feringgi. We speed up while taking sharp corners on the way down.

After a 7km with twist & turn down the hill, soon we passes the dam. There is another steep downhill before reaching Teluk Bahang. At this point, I decided to push all out together with Yong. 15km to go and we passes the waterstation without stopping.

There are some rolling hills while passing through Batu Feringghi. On the second attack, my legs cramp and I have no choice but slowing down. Sam with his MTB met us and U-turn to join us. My legs cramp badly and I decided to take my own pace.

Sam and Yong slow down and wait for me. Upon reaching Georgetown, my legs feels better and I managed to get myself into a group of riders with their jersey “GHOST”. I keep up and soon I overtake Sam and Yong up front. Yong join and together we speed up passing Gurney Drive. 3-4km to do finish, they group split up and Yong join them. My legs cramp started again
and I decided to take my own pace will the finish line.

2km to finish, Yong were waiting for me and together we reach Penang Town Hall, the finish line of today’s round island category ride. My total time is 3h 25mins. My total riding time is 2h 53m. It was a great ride. Thanks to the organizer for this great ride event.

Many many thanks to Sam Koay - offer me his tire and gave up his ride.

RIDE WITH CHIEF MINISTER (PENANG)

2009-10-26T13:01:00.004+08:00

We have successfully completed the round island category ride. A total distance of 80km with 2 giant hills to conquer. (Bukit Genting & Teluk Bahang)

No major accident and all sitiawan riders safely arrived at finish line.

the night before...

It was the day everyone waiting for….the round penang island event of the total of 80km in distance.

I, Yong, Kong Hing, Kwong Yew, Kumar, Anuar, Hamid and the gang representing Sitiawan is going to complete this round island event. “Ride with Chief Minister Campaign) organized by PBB Club of Penang.

Saturday, 24 Oct – As we going by separate car, we decided to go by ourself before meeting up with the rest of that gang in Penang. G Hotel is our destination to pick up our ride no & goodies bag. As I and Yong were travelling from Sitiawan to destination, Kumar, Anuar and Hamid the gang had arrived earlier to collect their goodies bag. We begin our journey at 2.45pm and arrived at 1926 Heritage Hotel in Penang at around 5pm. We check-in and drive ourself to G-Hotel.

A lot of participant had collected their ride number & t-shirt. We check our name and discovered that our ride no had been taken by someone. We only manage to pick up Kwong Yew and Kong Hing ride number. I begin to worry and calling Kumar, Anuar and Hamid, I’m hoping they might be already picking up me and Yong ride number. The luck doesn’t shine on me either as no one picking up my number. I double check with Ronnie(race captain) and together we begin to locate our ride number.

We waited for 20mins before Ronnie(race captain) found our ride number mixed up with other participant. He had remove it from the main group and set it aside to be pick-up. Fuhhh…what a relief, luckily I and Yong manage to get our ride number. Otherwise, we will intend to ride without them tomorrow.

After the collection, we went back to 1926 Heritage Hotel (our stay) and unloading the bikes. We rest and around 7.15pm, Sam Koay(UMW Regional Sales Manager) also a friend of Yong taking us for a great dinner (carbo loading) for the night. Kwong Yew and Kong Hing arrived
and together we go supper at around 9pm.

After a long chit-chatting with good laugh and jokes, we sleep at around 11.30pm.

Ride day stories ahead….

TOKEN PRODUCTS (In Stock)

2009-10-23T16:38:00.005+08:00

I'm taking in lots of TOKEN products for road and MTB biking.
Whoever interested on getting it, dont hesitate to SMS/Call me at 014-6043366 (albert)

Will be setting up a small showcase for TOKEN products soon. Place your order...!

TOKEN EX-TYPE Integrated Bottom Bracket TK877TBT with Tiramic Bearing (95g)

TOKEN (Pulley) TK1701TBT with Tiramic Bearing (17g/pair)

TOKEN Full Titanium Skewer TK236/TK237

TOKEN Carbon Bottle Cage 941

TOKEN Chainring Bolt lightweight Aluminium

For more products, you can email or MSN me at iseventech@live.com.my

TOKEN Bike Products (http://www.tokenproducts.com)

2009-10-22T12:55:00.001+08:00

I'm now officially a dealer for TOKEN Products (Manjung district).
(Many thanks to a good friend of mine...Keong (very supportive person)

For any inquries, question, order and just chit-chat - you can reach me at 014-6043366.

Ipoh Century Ride 2009 (DVD) for sale

2009-10-13T09:35:00.002+08:00

To all Ipoh Century Ride 2009 participants (Sitiawan & Manjung riders), a video footage of the briefing, ride and lucky draw ceremony is out for sale at RM20.

Thanks to our man Ridzal Sham that able to provide these DVD for our viewing pleasure.

For those interested to get it, please dont hesitate to SMS/Call me at 014-6043366 (albert) to get one copy of your own.

Rules of Road Riding

2009-09-30T12:49:00.004+08:00

Change positions correctly
- Slower moving traffic stays to the left; faster traffic to the right. Never overtake on the left of the group!
- Pass slower moving vehicles on the right; announce your intention to do so

Announce hazards
- Most cyclists do not have a full view of the road while riding in a group
- Announce potholes and other hazards so others can avoid them
- Call out the hazard and point down to it, either left or right. No need to yell like a maniac.

Watch for traffic from the rear
- The last rider should frequently check for overtaking cars
- Announce "car back" clearly and loudly
- It is also helpful to announce "car up" on narrow roads or when riding two abreast

Watch out at intersections
- Leader should announce slowing or stopping at intersections, if necessary
- Cyclists should not follow others through intersections without first looking for themselves
- Each cyclist is responsible for checking cross traffic, if you must stop, signal & stop

Leave room for cars
- On narrow road or during climbs, leave space between every three or four riders
- Motorists will utilize the shorter passing intervals to pass the group. Good relations with motorists is the responsibility of every cyclist. Remember, we share the roads with others; it’s not our Grandfathers’ road.

Stop off road
- When stopping for mechanicals or regrouping, always move clear off the road
- Always indicate you are stopping with your right hand asking them to overtake you on the right.
- Always yield to traffic in the roadway

Practice Good Peloton Etiquette
- Everyone in the peloton has to contribute to the workload. That means taking your fair share of pulls at the front. It’s ok to do shorter pulls, especially if you are tired. Just do a token pull, indicate and pull off to the right & back after you’ve established it is safe to do so.
- When you go to the front, always keep a constant & steady speed. Do not accelerate or show how fast you
are. It is not a race, moron!
- Typically everyone climbs at their own pace. So after a climb, recover & regroup before setting off again.
- Do not pull too long at the front. Always reserve some energy

Ride single file
- It is illegal in some areas to ride more than two abreast. Avoid doing this.
- In our country, the roads are narrow and winding. It is better to ride single filed in this case, unless it is safe to ride a double pace line.

RIDE WITH CHIEF MINISTER (Penang)

2009-09-30T11:39:00.009+08:00

To all of you cyclist, leisure riders, weekend warrior or just readers...

Comes register yourself and together we conquer penang round island, a total distance of 80KM with flat and hills...

Representing Sitiawan Cycling Club
1. Yong Yee Wan (with his new KUOTA KOM bike)
2. Sathirakumar (with his new KUOTA Kebel 2009 frame)
3. Albert Toh (my old junk Giant T-Mobile)

4. Ting Kong Hing (Proton T-Sprint R)

5. Anuar (Scott USA)

6. Ho Kwong Yew (Proton T-Sprint R)

7. Hamid Malakoff and the gang

25th October 2009 will be a test ride for 5 of us before the POWERMAN 2009 that will held on the 8 November 2009.

See you all there!

My New Company

2009-09-19T00:58:00.008+08:00

My new born company...

Any computer related question or inquiries???

Reach me at 014-6043366 (Albert) or visit http://www.iseventech.blogspot.com for most computer technical difficulties being solved

Ipoh Century Ride 2009 Finisher Medal

2009-08-18T10:30:00.002+08:00

check it out...so cooooool!

Ipoh Century Ride 2009 Ride Report

2009-07-29T07:23:00.001+08:00

4.30AM
Ringggggg! My alarm clock had rang and started to wake everyone up. Eng Chong & Shaiful is among the first to ready to roll out to the starting point.

While I began to gear up myself, I manage to loaded myself as much carbohydrates as I can with bread, power bar, chocolate bar and bananas. While waiting for others ready, we have another round of good laugh in the hall. Some planning how they gonna attack, some planning how to follow the peloton to complete the ride but I’m planning how to survive this ride.

5.30AM
Everyone is ready while the bikes & luggage is all loaded into the car, we headed out to Bukit Kinding (our start/finish point) somewhere near Tanjung Rambutan, Ipoh. While we arrive at the starting point, there is already lots of cyclist getting ready for the ride. Without wasting any time, I quickly change into my bike gearing, pump air into my tires, refill my water bottles and pack myself with Power Bars & Power Gels into the back pocket.

6.30AM
I ride myself to the starting line (there is a short steep climb at the top of the hill) I begin to wonder myself if I’m able to complete this year century ride. With my new bike only with me for few days, I didn't have enough time to test it out or get use to it. Anyway, time had come and I have to go on.

7.00AM
After NEGARAKU song had been played, the horn sound and a total of 500 riders is rolling out to the open road. For the first 5km, I was speeding up together with Yong as the front peloton has been pulling very fast. I didn't manage to follow Yong pace and soon I manage to get myself in a small group of 10 riders and started to chase the front. Yong is out of my sight as the day is still dark, I’m trying hard to follow my own group.

I was not properly warm up and soon discover I’m having hard time catching my breath. I slow down and stick onto the rear group and begin the calm myself down. At 10km point, I overtook Eng Chong and soon I was together with Kong Hing. As the route become hilly, Kong Hing slip back while I’m still stick myself into the group.

The route become tougher as the gradient of the rolling hills became steeper and steeper. Passing by Jalong intersection and we begin to head ourselves to Sungai Siput town. My group became bigger and bigger as we were joined by lots of solo riders dropping from the main peloton up in the front.

SUNGAI SIPUT TOWN.
Passing by Sungai Siput town, most of the road condition is downhill, the pace became faster and faster causing my group to split into few bunch. I’m still trying hard to stick with the front peloton around 5-6 riders left. Approaching Kuala Kangsar town, I was thinking to myself, should I maintain this hard ride or should I wait for the rear peloton to join in. As I looked back, I saw a big peloton (around 100 riders) is closing into my back. I quickly make my move and joined into this big peloton.

I saw Hamid and together we chit-chat for a while. Riding in a peloton its way too much different compare to ride alone. Passes Kuala Kangsar town, I have no problem following the peloton. Soon, the peloton headed to an open highway road leading us to Grik town.

Stay tuned...

Ipoh Century Ride 2009 (The night before)

2009-07-29T06:56:00.001+08:00

It was the most exciting day everyone was waiting for…Ipoh Century Ride 2009 is finally here.

I was busy packing and gearing up my bike stuff, clothes, nutrition, bike gearing and waiting for Yong to pick me up around 1.30pm. As plan, Yong arrived and soon my bike and luggage is already loaded in the car and ready to roll out to Ipoh.

As we soon realized we are out of Power Bars & Power Gels, we manage to stop by at Giant Supermarket and get lots of them. I’m very sure I’m gonna need all the energy bars & gels for tomorrow ride.

Century ride is a marathon ride for any cyclist who wanted to crown themselves by completing a total ride distance of 160km within a time limit.

As we reach Ipoh, we quickly get our apartment key (for our stay for the night) and get ourselves down to Ipoh Tower. This year, Ipoh Tower had been chosen to be the area for our race number, goodies bag, tag, free gifts collection.

I collected for all our Sitiawan Cycling Club riders and leave the building around 6pm. We headed to Tesco for our dinner while waiting for others to arrive. We have a good laugh at the mamak stall before headed back to the apartment for the night.

As we check out the goodies bag, we gear up our bikes with race number, oil the chain & double check the air pressure. Yong & Rafi had the chance to get a injection of B Complex vitamin brought by our doc (Kumar). We have another round of good laugh before everyone began to sleep for the night.

TOKEN Products

2009-07-22T12:27:00.003+08:00

TOKEN EX-TYPE Integrated Bottom Bracket with Tiramic Bearing

Weight : 95g

Comment by "Kumar" our Ipoh Century Ride 2009 had clocked 5hours 6mins.

"This bottom bracket is sooooooooo smooth"

Comment by "Yau" our new local MTB rider.

"It is veryyyyyy lightweight"

My Latest Bike (DREAM BIKE)

2009-07-22T12:21:00.006+08:00

This is my current ride...hehehe

Frame : Giant T-Mobile TCR Composite Team Bike with Giant T-Mobile Carbon fork

Drivetrain : Dura Ace 10s

Handlebar : Guizzo Carbon HandleBar with Carbon Stem

Saddle : Fizik Arionne

Seatpost : Giant Composite Seatpost

Bottlecage : ELITE Carbon

Wheelset : Dura Ace 7850-C24 Wheelset

Tire : Continental Ultra Race 700x23 Tire

Meter : CatEye Strada Wireless

Pedals : Shimano T-Mobile pedal

Ipoh Century Ride 2009 Conquer!

2009-07-20T11:01:00.004+08:00

With my new bike, I've complete my Ipoh Century Ride 2009 at the clocked of

6hours 11mins.

YIPPIE!!! I finally did it again. Stay tuned for the full report!!

Sitiawan Cycling Club Finishers:-
1. Yong Yee Wan 5h 15mins
2. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan 5h 12mins
3. Raimi bin Abd Razak 9th placing Category A
5. Shaiful Bahri bin Yunus
6. Mohd Raffi bin Hj Mohd Pilus 4h 49mins
7. Ridzal Sham bin Kamarulzaman 4h 45mins
8. Ting Kong Hing 6h 30mins
9. Jasni bin Bahari 5h 41mins
10. Abdul Hamid Ramli
11. Ong Eng Chong 6h 50mins
14. Mohd Khairul Anuar 4h 45mins
12. Muhammad Zulhusni bin Mohamad - DNF
13. Tan Chee Seong a.k.a Ah Chui - DNS

NO RIDE for Ipoh Century Ride 2009

2009-07-15T17:37:00.001+08:00

Sorry guys as my bike just sold to a very nice gentleman Saidi.

Looks like i wont be riding for this year Ipoh Century Ride 2009 as i got NO RIDE.

Have a plesant enjoyable ride. Will be there to support you all!

Proton T-Sprint R CVS Complete Bike

2009-07-13T13:47:00.005+08:00

SOLD

Proton CVS Carbon Complete Bike up for grab

Size : 53cm

Condition : Excellent

Measurement : Top Tube 52cm (c-c), Seat Tube 49cm (c-c)

Reason of selling : Retiring from cycling, to fund for other hobby

Items included :-

Proton T-Sprint CVS Carbon Frameset with Proton Carbon fork

Ultegra 10s complete groupset

Dura Ace 7900 New Chain

Jagwire White Kevlar Cables (very light & smooth shifting/braking)

Ritchey WCS Wet Black Handlebar 44cm

Ritchey WCS Wet Black Stem 130mm

Wheelset Mavic Ksyrium SSC with tires, tube, rimtape & quick release (lightweight wheels)

Shimano 105 wide pedal

Fizik Arionne Saddle

Bontrager Carbon Seatpost

For those interested, please SMS/Call at 014-6043366 (albert)

FREE GIFTS :

Ritchey WCS Alu Handlebar (42cm)

Dura Ace BB (brand new)

Payment : Cash, All major Credit Card accepted, 2x payment also can be arranged

IPOH CENTURY RIDE 2009

2009-07-07T10:36:00.002+08:00

The event is just around the corner, have you guys ready to roll?

160KM need to be covered by bike. Let's prepare the fluid, power bar, power gel and "steriod" if necessary...hehehe

Representing Sitiawan
1. Yong Yee Wan
2. Albert Toh Boon Huat
3. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan
4. Raimi bin Abd Razak
5. Shaiful Bahri bin Yunus
6. Mohd Raffi bin Hj Mohd Pilus
7. Ridzal Sham bin Kamarulzaman
8. Ting Kong Hing
9. Jasni bin Bahari
10. Abdul Hamid Ramli
11. Ong Eng Chong
12. Muhammad Zulhusni bin Mohamad
13. Tan Chee Seong a.k.a Ah Chui
14. Navy Anuar

Its time to prepare your bike...or i should say upgrade?

Imagine when you use Dura Ace 7900 Groupset, Dura Ace C50 Wheelset and new Pinarello Dogma frameset. You dont have to cycle fast as you already look FAST!

It's also time to prepare the ride...or i should say keep thin?

Cut all the Nasi Lemak, KFC, McDonald, Chicken Wings....Reduce body weight cost much less of RM than reducing bicycle parts weight...unless you loaded with RM! RM! RM! or USD$! USD$! USD$! otherwise, what the heck rite....HAHAHA!

Eumora Moor Bar Soap

2009-06-30T09:54:00.001+08:00

Condition : Brand New

Additional Info : Smoother and brighter up your skin, remove wrinkles, black spot or stain and restore your original beauty of your skin.

Direction of Use : Deep clean and rinse with water after 3 mins. Twice a day and you'll feel better within a month.

Price : RM60nett each

IPOH CENTURY RIDE 2009 (Registration Closed)

2009-06-26T12:30:00.000+08:00

As Janamanjung Fellowship Ride 2009 ended few days ago, the Ipoh Century Ride 2009 is just around the corner.

To all fellow hardcore cyclist, recreational rider or weekend warrior, make your registration now for upcoming IPOH CENTURY RIDE 2009.

Total of 160km to be cover for the whole journey to crown ourself true CYCLIST.

For accomodation, we'll try to get the same place as last year (a homestay in Bercham, Ipoh) Thanks to Farmasi Hing Owner (Mr Ting) as he'll be arranging our stay.

Official rider reprensenting Sitiawan Cycling Club :-

1. Yong Yee Wan

2. Albert Toh Boon Huat

3. Santhirakumar a/l Kathan

4. Raimi bin Abd Razak

5. Shaiful Bahri bin Yunus

6. Mohd Raffi bin Hj Mohd Pilus

7. Ridzal Sham bin Kamarulzaman

8. Ting Kong Hing

9. Jasni bin Bahari

10. Abdul Hamid Ramli

11. Ong Eng Chong

12. Muhammad Zulhusni bin Mohamad

13. Ah Chui (not registering but will joining)

NOTE : Ho Kwong Yew & Ong Lay Foo a.k.a Ming Meng (redrawn) not participating in this year event.

Registration to this year Ipoh Century RIde 2009 successfully done.

NOTE : Whoever making their decision to join in before the official closing date at 12 July 2009, you'll be on your own from now onwards. You may register by your own through http://kricycling.com website.

See you all guys on Saturday 18 July 2009!

This year route

JANAMAJUNG FELLOWSHIP RIDE 2009 Report

2009-06-16T15:28:00.001+08:00

It was the day everyone was waiting, the JAMANANJUNG FELLOWSHIP RIDE 2009. The route will takes us through Ayer Tawar, Bota, Parit, Beruas and back here at Manjung Power Station in Teluk Rubiah (Start/Finish line). Total distance coverage 133km.

It was heavy rain in the morning at 3am on the day the event held. As the rain stop at 5am, i begin to gear up, placing my bike into Yong's car and i'm very sure today its gonna be a very hot sunny day.

As i reach at the starting line at 7.00am, there is a lot of ppl unloading their bikes and begin to warm up. Without any time waste, i quickly change and fueling up my water bottle and ride to the start line. I can see lots of familiar faces (most of them been riding on JMFR 2008)

7.30am flag off and around 170 riders begins their journey that might take around 5 hours to complete. As we passes Sri Manjung, everyone was riding strong and soon once the peloton went through open road, they already picking up speed and hitting 40km/h. My god, race speed...are we in the race? i thought its a fellowship ride. As the police patrol car opening up the road 500m ahead of us, the font pack is pulling fast. I was doing 40km/h and hit 43km/h in certain area to avoid dropping at the back. Slower riders splitting up from the peloton right after Sg.Wangi and 140-150 riders still in the peloton.

Within 1 hour, we already approaching Bota town, our left turn that will lead us to Parit (our first stop wattering station). From the main road into narrow kampung road, the speed seems doesnt decrease. The peloton is maintaining at 38km/h-40km/h all the way. Everyone seems to enjoy the fast ride and riding hard to avoid dropping off from the group.

9.15am Parit town. We arrived safely and begin to refuelling our water bottle. We rested for more than 1 hour while waiting for others slow riders to come in. I saw a few bikes its already up on the "sweeper" lorry, probably tire puncture or body "pancit" already.

10.20am The ride continuous passing by Tanjung Belanja and soon the rolling hills begin. I was amazed with the speed of the peloton that approaching 45km/h. With some help from the tailwinds, the group split to small portion with lots of riders dropping from the front group.

I was struggling to keep up and soon I bonk just after the 2nd climb right after the Manong intersection. I was join by the rear group with 5-6 riders forming up a small one line group closing the gap with the front peloton. I lead most of the way with the help from only 1 rider…only 1 rider rotating with me. The others were staying at the back hiding from the headwind that started to become stronger and stronger.

I managed to sustain till Beruas town, where there is a waterstation. I didn’t stop instead picking up a 100 plus tin can to refill my energy. I guess my stomach is too empty that I couldn’t recover on time. My body shutting down and I couldn’t maintain my pedaling. I was struggling all the way alone from Beruas town till Kg Banjar (our final stop for regrouping)

As I reach the final pitstop, there is a lot of riders resting and ready to roll till the finish line in Janamanjung Teluk Rubiah. 15mins passes, MKH team rolling out and soon everyone is back on the road with the police patrol car is opening the road. In less than 5 mins, the speed increases till 40km/h and I have use all my remaining energy to maintain in the bunch. As we come out from the Beruas-Ayer Tawar intersection, the peloton begins their sprints and I have difficulty following the bunch. As the speed increase to 45km/h, i bonked for the 2nd time and these time I’m no near to recover.

I was riding alone and everyone is passing by my side. As I passes Ayer Tawar town, I was joined by Kwong Yew and together we waited for Kong Hing. Azhar’s leg cramp and we stop to help him out in Ayer Tawar town. As soon he recover, we ride on and I was practically out of energy. I was riding 20-22km/h all the way till the finish line. I was alone since Sg.Wangi and the weather is really hot.

I struggle all the way back to the start/finish and I finally arrived at 1.30pm. My total riding time is 4h 45mins. Total average is 28km/h. I was very happy that I managed to complete a total of 133km another ride organize by our local Jamanjung Teluk Rubiah.

Congratulate and many many thanks to our organizer Janamajung Power Plant and others co-sponsor. Also thanks for Zaki, our strong man that behind this event to make another great ride this year.

Will be joining again next year!

NOTE : JMFR2009 should be more accurate as JANAMANJUNG FELLOWSHIP R.A.C.E 2009.

120KM ride (Seberang Perak - Kg Gajah)

2009-06-01T10:01:00.003+08:00

It was another great day for everyone. Today’s ride begin from Sitiawan. We’ll ride through Lekir, Kayan and turn left into Seberang Perak at the paddy field area. The route is completely flat with lots and lots of headwinds.

7AM

One by one riders arrived at our meeting point, Pizza Hut Sitiawan, I begin to feel today’s its gonna be another great ride. I, Kumar, Malakoff Boy, Rizal, Remy, Another Perak State Boy, Kwong Yew, Yong and Kong Hing will be taking off from Sitiawan and estimated to end today’s ride at 12noon. Total distance 120km.

7.15AM

Our bikes tire began to roll out of the main road of Sitiawan, passing by Kg koh with lots of spectator waving at us. We steadily maintain our speed today at 26km/h. I roll out with Remy side-by-side up front while others are chit-chatting behind us. Our first attack when on as early as we reach Batu 8. Kumar is leading while the young boys were drafting behind him. The group split into 2 groups. Kumar slow down and the perak state boy is leading. He’s very strong indeed.
Remy was leading the second group and began our chase up to the front. As the chase began, Kong Hing is struggling in the back group. He is on his hybrid bike as his road bike puncture. We regroup as we passes YTY factory in batu 10 and maintaining at a stready speed 32km/h-34km/h. One by one pulling the group and one-by-one rotating to take the lead. The speed increase to 36km/h-37km/h and Kong Hing began to lose his pace. Remy is with him and support him at the rear of the group.

The gap was too big and we slow down for Kong Hing just before reaching Kayan intersection. Suddenly, the malakoff boy with his only yellow jersey breakaway from our group. None of us chasing after him as we see how far the attack will last. He open up a gap about 200m with us and the perak state boy began his chase. Remy, I, Yong, Kumar, Rizal follow his trail as we once again close the gap with the malakoff boy. As the speed increase to 40km/h, the malakoff boy bonk and didn’t manage to follow up. I was struggling in the front group while others look strong.

With the speed at 40km/h I was following the front group for almost 3km before I broke off to the back. With Kwong Yew, the malakoff boy and Kong Hing is no where to be seen, I slow down for them. I was riding alone and the gap with the front group is getting wider.

I was alone for about 1km, I manage to see Kwong Yew, Kong Hing and the boy begin to close up with me. Right in front, I can see Yong slowing down for me too. Approaching the left turn into Seberang Perak, I manage to get close with Yong and together we stop with the front group that already arrived for a while. We waited for the rear group to join us and without any time to waste, we on the road again. 1km into the road, we split into 2 groups. I’m in the 1st group with Remy, Yong and Kwong Yew while others at the back.

Remy left us and waited for the back group while Yong was leading steadily at 31km/h. After 2km, i took the lead and maintain at 30km/h. I didn’t realize the right turn and together everyone passes it. Rizal shouted at us and soon we realize we had overshoot and we make over way back to the intersection. Entering Seberang Perak Felcra, we slow down and rested our legs. There are lots of kampungs houses and lots of kids waving at us (they might have thought we’re those professional cyclist…haha)

There is a short steep climb ahead and everyone was pacing for it. My legs were good and I was placing myself at second placing behind the malakoff boy. While we begin to climb, he accelerated and I was following his back. Upon reaching the top, the boy bonk and I manage to overtook him just over the top. Kumar, Rizal were riding steadily behind me.

With 3 of us together we maintain our journey to our first stop at Kg Gajah town. We were joined by Yong and the state rider boy. 5 of us leaving the back group and attacking on our own to the stop. The state rider boy was leading all the way and we reach Kg Gajah town just under 2 hours of total distance 54km. We stop at the intersection and waited for the back group to arrive.

We took breakfast at a mamak stall with lots of laugh and stories. We were RM60 for today’s breakfast. My god, RM60…can you guys imagine? We believe the shop owner simply calculate. Anyway, we continue on our journey back to Sitiawan. The malakoff boy’s bike had puncture on his front wheel, the air keep coming out slowly. While they were changing tube, I, Yong, Kwong Yew and Kong Hing decided to start our journey first as they were fast and will catch us soon. 4 of us begin our attack after we are out from Kg Gajah town. With each one of us rotating our lead, we were maintaining at 32km/h. 2km in, Rizal manage to join us. 5km passes, Kong Hing dropped to the back while 4 of us maintaining our speed. 10km in, everyone still strong and the back group is no where to be seen. We were finally caught by the state rider boy and Remy. They manage to catch us just about 2km to Bota town. Together we ride passes Bota town and soon we were already on the Perak river bridge. We stop at the intersection, by the road side while waiting for others to arrived.

There were another stories telling about the ride just now. Kumar and the malakoff boy arrived 5 mins later. While we rest, Kong Hing arrived 15mins later. After a short break, its time to head home. Kwong Yew were speeding away while tailing a big truck travelling at 60km/h. Again Remy and the state rider boy perform a fast speed train while everyone is trying to keep up with them. I was forcing myself to keep up with them while travelling at 45km/h. Yong waited for Kong Hing while others is trying to catch Kwong Yew up front.

Passing by Titi Gantung, Gelung Pepuyu, Roti Segar, Beruas intersection, we were all still together. We finally manage to catch up with Kwong Yew just before the Beruas junction and I slow down for him as I’m practically very tired already. The fast group is still pushing on and by the time I reach Ayer Tawar, there are no where to be seen.

I and Kwong Yew rest at Shell Petrol Kiosk while waiting for Yong and Kong Hing for refueling. We go on as quickly as possible with no time to waste as the sun already almost on the top of our head. 11.40am is the time we stop by saying hi to Ming Meng (our another long lost rider from Ayer Tawar) We manage to chit-chat for a short while and pushes on back to Sitiawan. Yong were leading all the way while I and Kwong Yew struggling following him. Approaching Sitiawan town, my legs were practically very tired and I was only able to cycle at 25km/h. I couldn’t keep up with Yong and soon I was riding alone for the remaining 2km till home. I reach home at 12.20pm in the afternoon. It was another great day for all of us. Total riding time 5 hours and 5 mins.

I guess we were all ready for this Janamanjung Ride 2009 as were doing 3 continuoes week of long distance ride. See you guys next week!

Gunung Tunggal Ride (60km)

2009-05-26T12:18:00.007+08:00

Sunday, May 24 – 60KM is the total distance that I gonna ride for today. The route begins from Giant Hypermarket, passing by Kg Acheh towards the first small climb (Tengku Bainun bridge). Right after the bridge, there will be rolling hills up to T-junction (Pantai Remis – Ayer Tawar) through Segari town. Turn right and second climb comes in 5km (Gunung Tunggal). After Gunung Tunggal, it will be all flat until Ayer Tawar town but there will be lots of headwind.

At 7am, all riders is already waiting at Giant Hypermarket Gate. Me, Yong, Kwong Yew, Rafi, Remy, Anuar, Ah Chui, Saiful, Malakoff Boy(sorry I forgot yr name) and Rizal. Did I forget anyone?
The tires start to roll as soon as Remy & Anuar arrived around 7.20am. They are late due to puncture in Anuar’s bike. There is an early breakaway by Kwong Yew as soon as we passes Kg Acheh. However, he being caught up just before the first bridge. Everyone was together with two rows side-by-side all the way till Tengku Bainun bridge.

There is a sprint on the Tengku Bainun bridge and splitting the peloton into 2 groups. I was following the 2nd group and we began to chase the 1st group. We manage to caught up just before Damar Laut junction and soon the speed has pick up around 30km/h – 32km/h. Rolling hills begin after Damai Laut junction and we was still together. With Saiful pulling the front at a steady rate, everyone seems to consume their energy. The second breakaway comes with Remy accelerate alone follow by Saiful. They successfully splitting up the peloton leaving most of them at the back struggling to follow. I was tired at the rolling hills and drafting behind Anuar. I was with him for the remaining distance till the T-junction (Pantai Remis – Ayer Tawar) where the front breakaway group had stop and rest.

I arrived together with Anuar and had a quick rest stop before Yong & Kwong Yew arrived. After a quick chat, drink and rest, we soon began our journey until Ayer Tawar town. Everyone was together and taking their responsibilities taking turn leading at the front. Rizal was leading when we passes Gunung Tunggal. There is another breakaway by Remy after Changkat Keruing. He slow down again for us after 800m ahead of us (I guess he’s boring with our riding speed)

Passing by an oil palm factory and lots of oil palm estate by the roadside, we all still together. Another breakaway done by the Malakoff boy but there is no one is chasing after him as most of other riders consume their boost for the last kilometer before Ayer Tawar town.

However, the Malakoff boy unsuccessfully breaking away from the peloton as the headwind is the strong. He has being breaking away a cuople of times, accelerate up to the front and soon he'll drop back from the group to regain his power. He's no where to be seen leading the peloton. Anyway, as we were maintain at a steady rate 32km/h, one by one rotating and just after Kg Raja Hitam village, I was in second position riding behind Rizal. Rizal was leading about 500m in distance. As soon as he open up and goes to the back of the peloton with 2km to go, I accelerated and hoping to pull the whole peloton faster before sprinting at the end towards the junction. I guess it was too early.

I was hitting 40km/h before I open up the rest of the group sprinting to the front. As I look back, Remy, Saiful, Rafi and almost everyone is sprinting. Its like a race towards the finish line. As usual, Remy was sprinting hard and almost no one able to catch up with him. However, it seems too early to sprint actually as it’s still around 700m to go.

I didn’t know who reaches the junction first as I was riding behind Yong & Saiful around 50m at the back. Kwong Yew was behind me. The Malakoff boy is dropping to the back.

Anyway, we stop the the traffic light before turning right into Ayer Tawar town. Right after the traffic light, my eyes caught a lady riding a motorbike at steady speed about 35km/h. I take my position and draft behind the motorbike. Yong quickly draft behind me and we both drafting at a steady speed. Suddenly, i can hear a loud VROMMMM sound coming from the bike and she is accelerating until 40km/h – 45km/h.

Yong didn’t manage to follow as the headwind became stronger. I push myself and maintaining at the speed rate of the motorbike. I soon overtook Remy, Anuar and soon joined with Rafi, Rizal and Ah Chui up front.

Upon reaching Ayer Tawar, I was tired and slowing down to regroup. After the first Ayer Tawar traffic light, there is a bunch of break away done by Remy and other riders, attacking in the centre of the town. Wow! I was surprise seeing lots of spectators from the roadside excited with the attack.

Anyway, we all regroup and have a good laugh and chat at the Taman Dindings Mamak Stall. Rafi went on as he got a date awaiting for him.

From Ayer Tawar, we cycle slow and chit-chat most of the time till we reach Sitiawan. I split up with the remaining group and cycle along with Yong and Kwong Yew. Yong was leading the whole way back to Sitiawan town. Kwong Yew nearly fell as he didn’t realize he was cycling at the edge of the road, lucky for him.

It was another great ride for all of us. Some tired, some feel great, some feel boring…but most of all, everyone had fun and safely return home.

NOTE :
Many apologize to our Farmasi Hing’s owner, Mr Ting as he had a puncture 16km from Sitiawan (near a temple in Damai Laut) We were pacing and didn’t realize that he had bike difficulties. I only got his message half way point to Ayer Tawar. However, we confirmed that he safely return home as his support car arrived within 30mins.

JANAMANJUNG FELLOWSHIP 2009 Test Ride

2009-05-19T09:57:00.004+08:00

Sunday – May 17, Janamanjung Ride 2009 Route Test Ride. As JMFR2009 just around the corner, we decided to test ride thie year Janamanjung 2009 route. As early 7am, everyone seems already at the meeting point (Giant Hypermarket Sri Manjung). Yong, Kumar, Remy, Jasni, Ah Chui, Kwong Yew and I were all excited about today’s ride. It was the day everyone was waiting for. The route will pass through Ayer Tawar, passing by Titi Gantung before turning left at Bota Town. The route continues about 20km to Parit town. After Parit, the hilly route begins till Beruas Town before turning back to Sitiawan via Ayer Tawar.

Total Distance : 115km
Total Ride Time : Start : 7.10am End : 11.55pm (4hrs 45mins inclusive of few rest stops)

All wheels begins to roll at 7.10am. As we cycle as a bunch, leading by Remy almost the whole journey, we travelling at 30km/h-32km/h. Our objective is to complete the whole journey in a big group. I was rolling with my different wheels (Shimano R550), I’m feeling satisfied with the few after a few kilometers in. Approaching Ayer Tawar town, we all still together. There are no breakaways made as everyone was consuming their energy.

Today’s sun seems to shine and warm up the earth very quickly. The time is only 8.00am, the sun is shining strongly and soon it begins to feel hot. Approaching Bota town, Kwong Yew drop his car keys on the road while trying to take his “black eye peas” spectacles.

Everyone slow down for him and soon we’ll together again. Everyone was relief when we turn left at Bota town towards Parit town as the route is shady with trees. Scenic route with kampongs houses, cow dung, filled with tress & rainforest.

The first climb comes in 4km before Parit with 5% gradient, short slope. We still together when we arrived into Parit town around 9.00am, 50km from Sitiawan. After a short discussion, we decided to continue our journey till Tanjung Belanja about 5km after Parit town. We push on till we passes Dataran Nordin (a small stopping area on the official day JMFR2009). After 500m from Dataran Nordin, we reached Tanjung Belanja. We stop for breakfast with nasi lemak, bihun goreng, teh O and milo ais.

Having breakfast in Tanjung Belanja, Perak.

Kumar in full action

Rizal phone us and decided to wait us at Beruas town due to waking up late and didn’t manage to join us earlier. After 30mins of resting and refueling, we go on till our next destination, Beruas. The sun begins to heat up the earth and soon everyone was tired. The rolling hills begins all the way to Beruas town. With Kumar & Yong leading in front, we maintain at a steady rate. The route towards Beruas is winding with up and down hilly and soon Remy was no where to be seen. Ah Chui shouted us to slow down and waited for Remy. By the time we saw Remy picking up his pace towards us, Ah Chui suddenly hit the back wheels of Yong’s bike. He regain his balance without falling into the road. Somehow, we stop and check their bikes and discover Ah Chui front wheels damage with a bend spoke. Yong’s rear derailleur was hit quite hard and bend inwards to the wheels. Anyway, after a quick check up, they manage to recontinue their journey.

Hills and hills keep coming in about 9km to Beruas and Remy was speeding up. Kumar keeping up with him and soon Ah Chui together with Jasni following them. I was tired and climbing up the hills quite slow. I was joined by Yong & Kwong Yew. We 2 team up together to start our chase back into the front group. Unfortunately, I exchange lead with Yong trying to close up the gap but I was too tired and the route is very hilly. I finally let go the lead and Yong chasing by its own. Kwong Yew was behind me.

Upon reaching Beruas town, the front group stop and waited for me. We regroup and before our legs cooling down, we decided to go on back to Sitiawan. Rizal join us and he’s leading most of the time. With the strong heat and direct sunlight, my legs begin to feel tired and weak. I finally let the group goes with I cycling alone at the back.

Kwong Yew slow down for me and Yong suddenly had his right thigh cramp and slowing down too. I manage to catch up with them but the front group is no where to be seen. I push myself with no energy left in the tank but a determination to complete this ride.

The front group was waiting for me at the Beruas intersection and we begin to cycle in a group again. Upoh reaching Ayer Tawar, I was picking up my pace about 32km/h and soon Remy, Kumar, Jasni, Rizal was breaking away into Ayer Tawar town. They stop at SHELL petrol kiosk and I begin to fuel up with plain water, isotonic water, soya bean and any fluid I can find. Some refueling their body with RED BULL!

We continue on and i decided to let the front group go when Yong is having another cramp on his legs. I slow down for him and we together ride until Sitiawan. 4km to Sitiawan town, my legs is extremely tired and i decided to let Yong go without drafting behind him.

I was alone all the way till Sitiawan through the rubbish dumping area with some slope up and down. I managed to continue till I reached home at 11.55am. Today’s ride is practically good. However, the sunny weather makes me a challenge to complete the journey. I’ll prefer to ride more under the shade, country roads.

Will be doing long distance ride again next week. Come! Come! We need more riders, see you guys soon ya!

NO RIDE on May 3rd

2009-05-03T09:29:00.005+08:00

It was raining for the whole day.
I guess i'm off from the road today, taking a complete day off from bike.
Will be riding again next week. See you guys next week!

POWERMAN 2009 registration OPEN

2009-05-02T10:05:00.004+08:00

POWERMAN 2009 REGISTRATION

To all cyclist, weekend warrior, fun riders out there...the registration for this year POWERMAN 2009 is already open.

I've registered my placing the Sprint Event. i'm gonna do 5.5km run, 32km bike and 5km run.

Either you are a sprint or full participant, booked your place fast. Let's make another year of POWERMAN great!!!

Pro-Lite Tubular 50mm rolling out

2009-04-30T17:36:00.004+08:00

It was another normal Sunday morning, i roll out with my Pro-Lite 50mm Tubular wheels on the road for the first time. It was a great wheels, rolling out smoothly.

As i met with other cyclist at Top One (usual gathering area), i was amaze with the smoothness of the wheels. i roll out with only three riders - Remy, Rafi & Kwong Yew. As soon as we hit the main road, Kwong Yew picking up speed together with Rafi. I was still chit-chatting with Remy got drop back about 400m.

As we passed Kg Acheh, Remy begin his chase as i tail behind him closely. The wheels surf to left whenever a big vehicle passes by my side. It was easy tailing behind Remy travelling at 38km/h. Upon reaching Tengku Bainun (Sg Dinding) bridge, i got drop back. The wheels begin to feel heavy and i need to pedal hard to move it.

On the other side, Remy slow down for me. As i manage to get back behing Remy, he begin to speed up again chasing Rafi & Kwong Yew. Before reaching Damar Laut intersection, we manage to catch up and overtook the front group and we together pedalling up to Teluk Senangin.

As Kwong Yew made his u-turn at Damar Laut junction, 3 of us maintain over medium fast rhythm till Teluk Senangin. Everytime passing by a hilly route, i can feel the different of these wheels.

After 10mins of resting, we begin to cycle back to Sitiawan. I struggle to keep up with both of them. I finally blow out at half way point climbing up the Sg Dinding bridge. Passing by the bridge, Rafi & Remy is no where to be seen as they speeding up all the way.

I cycle by my own till Sitiawan with the average speed of 26-28km/h only. This is my first day experience with my new Pro-Lite 50mm Tubular wheelset. I guess my legs still not strong enough to pedal these high-profile wheels. As kumar said to me before, "boleh bawa ke rim nie?". Its not that easy to cycle high-profile rim without a pair of strong piston.

Anyway, i'll be going out again with these wheels next week. See you guys next week.

Perak Sultan Birthday's Solo Ride

2009-04-21T11:01:00.007+08:00

Sitiawan - Lumut - Kg Baru - Spg Lima - Sitiawan (55km)

It was raining the night before and i was doubting to go for a ride on 19th April 2009.

I woke up at 6.45am and finally decided to go for a solo ride as most of other riders went for holiday. With no aim on which route to go, i decided to cycle around Manjung. I gear up and ready to ride at 7.10am.

My tires roll out on the road as soon as 7.15am and i decided to climb Bukit Maju in Lumut. As i warming up at the average speed of 28km/h, i feel my legs muscle burning up. Soon i was doing 30km/h all the way to Lumut town. As i do a big loop in Lumut town, i felt tired and decided to slow down just before the hill. It was a strong headwind all the way to Lumut town.

As i climb Bukit Maju in Lumut, i was doing 10-11km/h only using the smallest gearing 39x23 all the way up. My heartrate pump to 195bpm and soon i think i'm gonna blackout. Anyway, i manage to struggle and reach the top.

After Lumut town, i cycle back to Venice of Perak and headed to Tengku Bainun (Sg Dindings) bridge. I was tired and i'm only doing 26-27km/h regardless of headwind or tailwind. The sky turns dark filling up with black clouds and soon i know its gonna rain heavily.

As i climb Tengku Bainun bridge and make a U-Turn at the top of the bridge, the rain started with the wind blowing strongly. I make a turn into Kg Baru and maintain the rhythm to complete the whole journey. I continue cycling under the rain and i was doing 26km/h only. Soon i was left nothing dry with my jersey, shorts, bike, water bottle fill with rainwater and i guess my bike now weight more than 10kg.

I go on and the rain stops upon reaching Sg Wangi. With no energy, i go on and push myself through Spg Lima, Spg Tiga and Spg Dua. With nothing left in my both legs, i only manage to maintain 25km/h and hoping i'll make it back home without fainting.

The rain started again when i reach Spg Dua, my leg muscle started to get numb and cramp. I stand and sit several times while strecthing as much as possible. When i reach Sitiawan junction and check my cyclometer, i was doing exactly 2 hours for 56km only, averaging 27.9km/h for the whole journey.

It was a extremely tired day for me and i slept the whole evening. Now i discover how hard it is to tackle the wind, the journey, the distance, the pressure, the feeling all by yourself. Probably i'll just hang my bike back on the wall and retired...hahaha!

JANAMANJUNG FELLOWSHIP RIDE 2009

2009-04-17T21:04:00.003+08:00

I"M IN! I"M IN!

While waiting for others to join in, i decided to register myself first before the 150 spaces filled up with riders from the whole nationwide.

check it out - looks like my riding number is 004.

01-MOHD ZAKI (TOKI)-MANJUNG MCT-L
002-DR KUMAR-MANJUNG-M
003-HJ DIN ESTIMA-MANJUNG MCT-XXL
004-ALBERT TOH-SITIAWAN-XXL
005-RAJA ABDULLAH-S'NGOR-L
006-JASNI BAHARI-MJG MCT-M
007-ALI HASHIM-MJG MCT-XL
008-REMY-MJG MCT-L
009-RAFFI PILUS-MJG MCT-L
(mirror from ZAKI website, official website)

For T-Shirt, I guess i'm getting wider so i need XXL compare to last year.
HAHAHA!!!

Pro-Lite 50mm Tubular Wheels

2009-04-09T11:02:00.006+08:00

ooooh, my dream wheels....
looks like i'm praying very hard, hopefully it will be mine soon.
HEHEHEHE!!!!

check it out how cool is it when it's on my bike....
HEHEHEHE!!!!

My Current Ride

2009-04-09T10:50:00.004+08:00

This is my current ride

Frame : Proton T-Sprint R CVS Full Carbon Frameset with Carbon fork

Drivetrain : Ultegra 10s

Handlebar : Ritchey WCS

Stem : Ritchey WCS

Saddle : Fizik Arionne

Seatpost : Ricthey WCS

Bootlecage : ELITE Carbon

Wheelset : Alex Rim Swift X300

Tire : Monaco 700x23 Tire

Meter : Shimano 10spd Flightdeck

Pedals : Shimano 105 wide pedal

EUMORA Moor Bar

2009-04-08T13:03:00.005+08:00

Have you guys heard before this EUMORA Moor Bar?

It seems it will smoother and brighter up your skin, remove wrinkles, black spot or stain and restore your original beauty of your skin.

It's RM95 per pc. Deep clean and rinse with water after 3 mins. Twice a day and you'll feel better within a month.

What about us? As for cyclist, when you have smooth, white skin...you intend to reduce wind friction...is this true? Let's try it out! HAHAHA!!!!

For more information, give me a call 014-6043366 (albert)

Another Sunday Ride

2009-04-07T17:09:00.004+08:00

5 April 2009

I wake up with lots of hesistation to cycle or not. Its been weeks i have not on the saddle and i decided to join today's ride.

I met Yong in Petronas Seri Manjung and together we ride to Top Two (Samudera Manjung) our meeting area. My legs begin to feel sore and pain after 3km ride. I soon have a feeling that i might not able to complete today's ride. Probably might do a U-Turn half way point.

It's been great to see all other seniors rider back on the road together with those strong rider - Kumar, Rafi and not forgetting Remy.

After a few ideas of today's route, we decided to hit the hills in Gelung Pepuyu via Beruas. The wheels rolling out with 10 riders on the road (me, yong, remy, ah chui, rafi, kumar, anuar, jasni, ali, rizal...did i miss anyone here)

I begin to ride with a fast pace lead by ah chui right after passing by Manjung Go-Kart. With ah chui leading almost all the way, soon we got caught up by the peloton just before Sungai Wangi.

We ride single file with an average of 32km/h still lead by ah chui. Upon reaching ayer tawar town, ali's bike having a puncture and we stop to repair. I take this opportunity to rest and decided to u-turn soon. As my heart rate is rising, my muscle is cramping...i dont think i can go on anymore.

Tube change, air pump and soon we are back on the road. Passing by ayer tawar town and we all still in one whole bunch. Ah chui still leading and everyone seems enjoying the ride.

Yong breaking away with his steady pace right after the Kg Raja Hitam traffic light and soon he is flying away in front of the peloton. Kumar & Anuar passing by my side and begin to chase Yong that is about 100m in front alone.

Half way point to Beruas junction, we manage to catch up with Yong and begin to speed up. Kumar, Rafi is leading the whole way to Gelung Pepuyu junction with me hanging right behind them. As i look around, it seems all other riders seems very strong and ready to break away. Upon reaching Gelung Pepuyu junction, i begin to feel tired and decided to U-Turn back to Sitiawan.

The remaining rider continue their ride through Gelung Pepuyu as ah chui u-turn and started to cycle back to Sitiawan. With my body condition that nearly cramp and the remaining time and distance, i decided to turn back instead going on that i might probably blow out in the middle of the ride.

I leave the bunch and begin to pedal back. I saw ah chui in front of me about 500m and i begin to chase after him. With the tailwind, i pedal as fast as i can, hopefully to draft behind ah chui. Pedaling at 38km/h steadily, i begin to close the gap and finally overtook ah chui just before the beruas junction.

i begin to lead at 36km/h approaching ayer tawar town with ah chui riding strong behind me. Passing by Kg Raja Hitam junction, ah chui begin to lead as i take this opportunity to rest behind him.

Passing by Ayer Tawar town, i begin to feel good and strong. With the help of the tailwind, i maintain 36km/h for the rest of the ride until Sitiawan. I was focusing my pace line and soon i discover ah chui no where to be been. Probably he is way too tired (for not taking breakfast).

I pedal the remaining distance alone and i only managed to cycle average 30.7km/h overall back to Sitiawan. I guess i was too tired after the ride and i slept the whole evening.

Will ride again with your guys next week!

Janamanjung Fellowship Ride 2009

2009-04-06T12:57:00.000+08:00

ANNOUCEMENT!!!

JANAMANJUNG FELLOWSHIP RIDE 2009 is here again?

Let's together support our local ride by joining in this ride. Lock your date on your calendar 14 June 2009 for this outstanding ride. This year ride will be 133KM with the same starting point location as last year.

Thanks to TNB Janamanjung and those internal strong man preparing this ride.
A big applause for them.

Let's us together make this year ride another great ride!!!

HIDUP MANJUNG! HIDUP MCT! Oops...macam politik pulak...

Ipoh Century Ride 2009

2009-04-01T17:30:00.000+08:00

ANNOUCEMENT!!!

Will there be any rider representing Manjung for this year Ipoh Century Ride 2009?

Let's voice out and prepare for this year ride. May this year, lots and lots of Manjung rider joining this Ipoh Century Ride 2009.

COME, COME, Let's crown ourself CYCLIST! 160KM in 6 hours is the time we gonna beat. Let's make this year ride another great ride!!!

BACK ON THE ROAD!

2008-12-29T11:15:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, 28th Dec 2008.

I decided to give myself a ride back on the road. Together with Yong, we decided to tackle the headwind route through Spg Dua till Kg Bahru.

Eventhough the headwind is very strong, it was a great fast ride. However, I only managed to clock 1hour 22mins for a 40km ride. I feel good after the ride and guess i'm ready to BACK ON THE ROAD again.

January 2009 is just around the corner, see you all guys soon!

ON HOLIDAY!

2008-12-27T13:42:00.003+08:00

Sorry to all my cycling friends & members.
i have been on holiday for the whole month of DECEMBER 2008

Will be riding again on JANUARY 2009!

I'll be back!!!!

JANAMANJUNG FELLOWSHIP RIDE 2008

2008-07-31T10:19:00.007+08:00

With the heat of 160km century ride that i did on early July, i decided to partipate into this first year of 143km ride organise by Janamanjung. This event is held in my hometown and i definately wont be missing it.

We start off at Teluk Rubiah, a spectacular golf resort with nice beaches. We will be hitting the first climb right after heading out Teluk Rubiah Resort and there will be no uphill till KM60. Right after the climb, we will be passing by one of the biggest power station in Malaysia. Next, we will be passing by Seri Manjung, a develop town that is currently rising up fast before hitting into open road with kampungs, scenic route with rubber and oil palm plantations towards the only rest stop in the whole ride at Pasir Salak.

It was relaltively flat and little downhill all the way. After Seri Manjung, we will be passing by Lekir and Kayan (the last town in Manjung district) fill with rubber and oil palm plantations. After Kayan, we will be heading to Seberang Perak, a felcra estate that most of the land is cover with "padi" - malaysia national food (rice).

On KM60, there will be a short steep climb right after Seberang Perak before reaching Pasir Salak. There is food, drinks waiting for us in Kompleks Sejarah Pasir Salak for us to refuel before hitting the road again to Bota via Kg.Gajah.

Another spectacular route with kampungs view all the way from Kg.Gajah to Bota, another old small town in Perak. After Bota, we will turn into the main road between Sitiawan-Ipoh with double lanes wide. Suspected the wind is going to pick up where most of the surrounded area is widely open.

Titi Gantung is the next town we will be passing by as most of the people here mostly works in plantations division. Soon we be arriving into Ayer Tawar, a town that split into two (right and left) where the main road was build through right into the middle of the town.

About 20km to go, we will be passing by beside Sitiawan town before reaching back into Seri Manjung town which we have start from earlier. The finish line is back into the Teluk Rubiah Resort.

This whole ride may take up to 6 hours. Imagine 6 hours on the saddle may cause your neck, shoulder, hand, thigh sore and numb.

No pain, no gain.

The night before

There is a ride briefing by the marshall on the night before the ride. I'm suprise with the names thats on the board - Team LETUA and ARMED FORCES group is participating, i believe tomorrow ride will be mostly control by them. There is also Ipoh riders, Kulim riders (MKH), local Janamanjung riders and our Manjung riders. Few solo riders also can be seen around the area that couldnt wait this first ever ride organise by Janamanjung.

After the registration and goodies bag collection, I begin to felt I just couldnt wait till tomorrow. After the briefing about the route, safety, water stations stop, I left and begin to gear up my bike, supplies, fluid and power gels. I slept early for the night for a good rest.

RACE DAY stories ahead! Stay tuned!

The night before (Century Ride 2008)

2008-07-19T11:21:00.005+08:00

It was 1 week left for the Century Ride 2008 after my first Ipoh International Run.

Everything was prepared as earlier as possible (3 days before)- the bike, gearing, tools, jersey, power gel, muscle cream and the leg’s muscle of course.

On Saturday, I and Yong decided to go down to Ipoh earlier to collect the goodies bag and race tag number for all Sitiawan participant.

We travel at 3pm and once we at the race secretariat area, we were told that the jersey provided has run out of sizes. S and XS is the only size left to be collect. We collect for total of 19 participant and begin to feel the heat of tomorrow race. Lots of national, state riders were hanging around at the hotel lobby.

Once we left with the goodies bag in our hand (all 19), we drive our self to our accommodation (arrange by our coach Kong Hing) It was a great place, with 6 rooms and fully air condition with TV provided.

We unloaded our bikes and begin to look for food while we waiting for others to arrive. Team TNB came early and took their goodies bag together with their race number. Pangkor Kheong is next to take the goodies bag as he is staying overnight at a different location.

Ah Chui, Rafi, Kumar arrive not long and we have our self loaded with carbohydrate. Nasi Goreng Ayam, Roti Canai is among our carbohydrate loading.

Soon we are heading back and rest for the night. At 12am, I woke up due to loud noise outside of my room door. And then I realized, Hamid, Remy, Jasni, Kong Hing and Ming Meng is all here. I tag my race tag number on the helmet/bike the same night and we managed to chat for a while before heading back to sleep.

RACE DAY stories coming up soon. Do Wait!

Century Ride 2008

2008-07-09T13:10:00.002+08:00

3 more days to the ultimate challenge of cycling. The century ride 2008 is finally here.

Confirm participants list representing "MANJUNG". We come from all different type of culture, religions, races but we all are ONE! This is the true cycling spirit.

Nor young or old, Nor tall or short, Nor black of white, Nor strong or weak, we all are ONE!

Representing Sitiawan
Yong (domestic rider)
Albert (backup rider)
Kong Hing (coach)

Representing Manjung
Ah Chui (time trialist)
Remy (climber)
Kumar (climber)
Rafi (climber)
Jasni (domestic)

Representing Pantai Remis
Eng Chong (solo rider)

Representing Ayer Tawar
Ming Meng (sprinter)

Representing Pangkor
Hwa Hong (endurance rider)
Kheong (endurance rider)

Representing TNB Janamanjung
Zaki, Jefri, Wan, Raja, Faudzi and Azhar.

TOGETHER we make it GREAT!

IPOH INTERNATIONAL RUN 2008

2008-07-07T13:27:00.000+08:00

ITS HERE! ITS HERE!

After a long wait, its finally here. This is my first time joining the IPOH INTERNATIONAL RUN 2008. 10km it’s the distance I’m gonna do it for thi s year. I registered myself early June to book my placing in this event.

Before the event, I was training almost everyday, 5km – 8km in distance. The last 10km non-stop run I did was last year on the Powerman event which I was in walking pace for the last 4km.

Can I do it this year? I don’t know.

On Saturday, the night before the big event, I was gearing up all my necessary clothing, power bar, isotonic drinks and travel down to Ipoh for a stay.
July 6

Sunday. I couldn’t sleep well, probably too excited for the event and finally woke up as early at 4.30am. Gearing up and getting myself into running attire and begin to travel to Stadium Ipoh for the start/finish area.

There were thousand of participant already warming up and couldn’t wait for the race to start. International participant also can be seen especially from Kenya, Thailand and Africa.
Getting myself into registration area and registered myself on the 10km run.

5.30AM
I begin to warm up with Kheong (Pangkor), stretching my legs muscle and consume myself a bottle of 100plus. Being too excited before the race begin, I make my way twice to the washroom.

6.50AM
All participant for 21km and 10km Men’s Open, Woman’s Open, Veteran categories were call to the start line before the gun blow’s off exactly on 7am.

7.00AM
BOMB! The gun fires and the race start. I was in the middle of the pack and begin to push the front row to move. It took me about 2 minutes to free myself from the heavily pack after 300m into the race.

I begin to push myself hard and my heart rate monitor begin to sound when I hit 1km mark. I was worried and begin to slow down the pace. Lots of runners passes me by my side (right and left) and I begin to drop to the back.

I keep on running on my pace and hoping to complete the whole 10km without walking. I go on and on and somewhere in 4km mark, I begin to realize there is lots of others runner slowing down and drop to walking pace.

I can feel my leg is still strong and I begin to push myself again. Passes the Ipoh Parade roundabout, I feel great and carry on to move forward, overtaking one runner and on runner.
Water Station ahead but I did not manage to grab any cause there is too many participant queuing up for it. Instead of stopping and take turn to grab the drinks, I go on without looking back.

I was not told about the route and decided to keep my normal pace before pushing myself all out for the last 2-3km.

On the first turn back to the Stadium Ipoh, there is a sign showing “6KM”. I was surprise with the time I did till 6KM sign, I shouldn’t be that slow. I was actually mistakenly thought it a was 6KM to go but it suppose to be mean that I’m already at 6KM point.

Without blowing myself all out, I keep on running and pass the Polo Ground area.

Another water station ahead, but instead of giving out water, they giving you sponge with water to cool down. I grab 2 sponge and drain myself with the cold water on my neck, hand and thigh.
On the Army area roundabout, I saw the 5KM and 7KM distance runners joining with us and I realize that the finish line will not be that far anymore.

I push myself hard and started to make my way to as front as possible. With the runners from 5KM and 7KM distance joining my route, its sometimes impossible to passes them as most of them were walking, talking on the phone. There is a few times I have to budge into them to go through.

There is another water station ahead but with less than 2KM to finish line, forget about the water, I’m aiming for the finish line.

I go all out and my heart rate boost up to 200 per minute causing me almost black out for a second. I crosses the finish line at the time of 1hour and 9mins beating the time limit of 1hour 20mins.

I was extremely happy that I did it my actual first 10km in a race within time limit.
It was a hard day but its worth it. 13000 participant from all around the world joining this Ipoh International Run 2008 for 21km, 10km, 7km and 5km distance.

Joining again next year? That’s for sure!

Century Ride 2008

2008-04-26T00:39:00.001+08:00

Team Sitiawan is collecting entries form.

Riders
Sam, Yong, Albert, Kong Hing, Kheong (Pangkor), Kumar and Rafi had already submitted entries form joining this year Century Ride 2008.

Century Ride is an ultimate ride, a true 160km ride must be completed within time limit. Riders that manage to complete will be named CYCLIST in the whole cycling career.

With pain in the neck and shoulders, sore in the back and thigh, numb on hand and foot. Endurance, mental and physical fitness is tested, nor rain or shine, riders is force and torture to achieve this ultimate true of cycling. With high consistence training, power and focus, we will survive.

LET'S CROWN OURSELF TRUE CYCLIST!

PCC Interstate 2008

2008-04-26T00:27:00.001+08:00

PCC Interstate 2008 had launch!

5 guys from Sitiawan Team had confirm tackling the best scenic route with gruelling climbs and fast flat, passing by kampungs and beaches.

Kong Hing, Yong, Albert,Kheong (Pangkor) and our support car driver Patrick (Ng Loong Seng) had confirm placing in this 3-days multi cycling tour from Kajang-Bahau-Kuala Rompin-Kuantan covering more than 460km.

We did it on 2001, 2002 and 2004. We will do it again this year 2008!

POWERMAN 2008

2008-04-26T00:21:00.000+08:00

POWERMAN 2008 here i come! I'll be joining this year to beat my last year timing.

Are you guys out there ready??
LET'S MAKE IT GREAT!

Coolbert's Bikes

2008-04-25T23:13:00.000+08:00

My previous ride (it used to be a complete bike and now what's left)

Frame : Trigon Full Carbon Frameset with Trigon Carbon fork Handlebar + Stem : Trigon EX Carbon Integrated

Saddle : Selle Italia

Seatpost : Trigon EX Carbon Integrated

Wheelset : Cosmic Carbone SSC

My road bike

Frame : Scott USA Lightweight Alloy Frameset with Scott Carbon fork

Drivetrain : Ultegra 9s complete
Handlebar: Ritchey Pro Alloy

Stem : Ritchey Pro Alloy

Saddle : Scott USA
Seatpost : Richey Alloy
Bootlecage : Look Carbon Wheelset : Mavic Ksyrium Elite
Tire : Monaco Lightweight Tire
Meter : Cateye Double Wireless Meter with Heartrate function
Pedals : Ultegra

My TT bike (not a true TT bike but still building)

Frame : Proton T-Sprint R Carbon Frameset with Proton Carbon fork

Drivetrain : Ultegra 10s with Pazzaz Carbon Crank

Handlebar + Stem : None

Saddle : Selle Italia

Seatpost : Bontrager Carbon

Bootlecage : None

Wheelset : Xero XCR-1

Tire : Victoria Corsa

Meter : None

Pedals : None

FRASER HILL

2008-04-22T23:12:00.004+08:00

It was raining on the night before we travel to Fraser’s Hill for the climb on 19^th April 2008. Everyone was excited and couldn’t sleep well on the night and finally decided to travel early to Ulu Bernam R&R instead.

We travel at 11pm and it’s still raining. The bike already wet all the way to Bidor (a small town) half way journey to Kuala Kubu Bahru. We stop for “petrol” and one of the cars having trouble with misfiring engine. We woke everyone up from the car and start looking for tools to dismantle the engine “spark plugs”. Unfortunately we couldn’t find any suitable tools to remove it and decided to stop for “minum pagi”. It’s already 1am (where got workshop open rite). The engine needs to cool down and we stop for nearly 40mins.

Journey continues and we finally arrived at Ulu Bernan R&R. It’s about 2am and we decided to sleep till 5am before traveling to Kuala Kubu Bahru for the climb. Sleeping in the car it’s not the best idea at all but that’s where the excitement is.

5AM.

I and Ho decided to get ready first while others still “Alice in wonderland”. After a short bath, I and Ho wakes everyone up and soon everyone is ready and having breakfast in the R&R.

6AM

We gear up and drive down to Kuala Kubu Bahru about 15km away via Tanjung Malim Exit. On the way, I manage to take in a Power Bar sponsor by Yong, thanks to him.

Pangkor senior veteran rider, Kheong rang me up and waiting for us at the mini stadium parking lot. We stop by a petrol kiosk for some refilling (water, Gatorade, red bull, anchor beer, etc etc…)

7AM

We arrive at parking lot and starting to gear up, assemble the bike, filling up 100plus into water bottle and soon we are all ready to hit the road. We manage to snap a group photo before leaving Kuala Kubu Bahru town up to Fraser’s Hill on this very chill cool morning.

7.30AM

11 riders hit the road and begin to climb after 1km from the town. 3 TNB riders where waiting for another rider that is getting ready quite late. We are 20mins in front of the TNB guys before they leave the parking lot.

As decided, 15KM is the distance ahead for our first regrouping area. The group splitting up into pieces right after we reach the Kuala Kubu Bahru Dam. With the sunshine, the view is superb although the road is getting steeper after 3km down the road.

Sam, Remy, Ah Chui, Rafi, Yong, Kheong were speeding up fast and leaving me, Hamid and Ho struggling up to the 15KM meeting point.

Once passes the Dam, the big two way road become narrow, the entrance to the jungle of mystery. Fill with green trees & waterfall is what we had to pass for the whole 30km climb to GAP.

Upon reaching 15KM meeting point, I try to break away at 12KM mark pushing myself to the meeting point, Hamid is behind the wheels and Ho is struggling to keep up. Did I say he’s on mountain bike? He’s really strong.

I finally arrived at 15KM meeting point and seeing all the fast, front riders already cooling down and I guess they have been there for quite a while already.

There is a discussion going on whether we should wait up the TNB guys before hitting the road again. We confirm from our support car driver and somehow they are still 8KM away from us and we decided to leave them and meeting up at GAP. (Before the gruel 8KM uphill steep climb).

I’m trying hard to keep up the pace that the front group is leading and finally at KM20, I am really tired and decided to leave the pack and cycle by my own. For nearly 10KM I’m alone all the way up to GAP.

I was quite happy to see the 15KM mark point to Fraser Hill knowing that I was near to GAP. I was doing 39x23 all the way which at some point, I need to use my lowest gearing 39x25. I was doing 11-14km/h for almost the last 5KM climb.

I was hoping the back group to catch me and cycle together in the group but there is no one to be seen. Corners and corners, up and up and finally I saw the GAP Rest house knowing that I’m few hundreds meters away from the Gate (one way road up to Fraser’s Hill).

I arrived and before I manage to cool myself down, Ho arrive follow by Ming (another Pangkor representative). 30mins later, the TNB guys arrived and we all waited together for the next 8KM climb when the gate opens at 11.00am.

I’m doing 2h 50mins for the 30km climb.

11AM

8KM to go, that’s my finish line up on top of Fraser’s Hill. Gates open and we all 15riders started the climb. The few corners were so steep making me think “Will I arrive at the top”. The gradient becomes steeper and steeper and we only 1km into the 8km climb.

One by one passes by side leaving me in the middle of the pack. My gearing is at 39x25 all the way up, hardly drop 39x23. On 6KM miles stone, I was doing 8km/h on the climb.

Remembering I had my Power Gel on my back pocket (again sponsor by Yong), I ate half and kept another half for the final 1-2km to go. Almost instantly, I regain my power to push 10-11km/h up the hill. On the final 2km miles stone, I ate the remaining Power Gel and start to speed up to 30km/h. There is a flat portion for about 500m giving me hope to catch up with a rider in front of me.

I saw Kheong just around the corner and pushing my legs as fast as possible to overtake me before the top. 1km to go, the flat portion begins to get steep again. Knowing I got 1km to go, I push as hard as I could with the aim to overtake Kheong. Surprisingly, I manage to catch up with him and overtook him just 20m before the gate (Fraser’s Hill Top).

While waiting for others to arrive at the top, we manage to sneak around Fraser’s Hill (this is my first trip here). Like on the advertisement, Fraser is mini England. The building, gardens very similar to European styling.

11.35AM

That’s when I reach the clock tower. The statue monument of Fraser’s Hill.

12PM

Its downhill time and I finally decided to follow the support car instead.

It was a great experience going up Fraser’s Hill for most of our riders here as everyone first time here. We will do it again soon. See you on next climb.

Our Top Riders

TNB Team (thanks for their support)

Our Brave Man
(involve in accident on the way down)

CAMERON HIGHLANDS

2007-12-25T13:19:00.000+08:00

CAMERON HIGHLANDS

It was a last minute decision that Cameron Highlands is our next destination before the year 2007 ended. On 20th December 2007 is the date we will climb and preparation had to be done as soon as possible.

The night before the climb, we begin to prepare all the necessary stuff – helmet, spare tubes, nutrition supplies, power gel, bike (of course), checking the brakes, tighten all the screws and bolt. 2 hours later, all the bike is in the car and ready to launch to Tapah (foothill of Cameron highlands). Yes, Tapah is where we gonna start the climb until Brinchang, a total of 70km one-way.

The clock 10pm, I tried to call a few other local riders and finally ended up with only three riders are going for the climb as it s a last minute preparation so most of them couldn’t have enough time to prepare. So be it.

2am I woke up and couldn’t sleep well the whole night. Keep asking myself, should I climb CH, can I climb CH? Questions that keep playing in my mind causing me to sleep again before my alarm rang at 4am. IT IS TIME!

Get myself ready and drove my car out to meet up with Yong/Sam and soon we heading to Tapah. At 6.00am, we stop by in Teluk Intan for early breakfast. Should I climb CH, can I climb CH? I still kept asking myself this few questions when I was driving towards Tapah. At 7.00am, we reach Tapah. We manage to find a secure car park just in front of local mosque and begin to gear up for the climb.

Weather looks cloudy, looks like it is another damp ride ahead of us. Soon we begin the climb at 7.30am. At 2km point, the gradient become steeper just before Kuala Woh (Hot Spring) I begin to feel the pain in the thighs and these question begins to play in my mind again and again - should I climb CH, can I climb CH?

Yong/Sam had been away for couple of minutes in front leaving me struggling up the hill alone. At Kuala Woh intersection, they waited for me and we begin to climb together. I’m using 39x27 at that time for the climb. Using a low gear and pedaling fast its not the correct way to climb a long hilly route. Soon I begin to gear down to 39x23 and started to push myself every pedal. Surprisingly, my speed manages to increase to 20-25km/h.

I continue and keep checking my cyclometer and wondering where is Lata Iskandar, a spectacular scene of waterfall in between Tapah – Ringlet town. I was relief when I saw Lata Iskandar signboard ahead of me, I know its resting time again.

We manage to took a couple of photos for remembrance and continue of journey before our legs cool down. The gradient becomes steeper than before causing me to use 39x25 and sometimes 39x27 to keep up with Yong/Sam.

Corners and corners, up and up and soon we reach a long bridge with an outstanding view of forest so we stop to rest. Since we only 3 guys, there is no rush to reach the top and we decided to go slow and complete the whole course.

We continue to ride and after 15mins trailing behind them, I felt exhausted and tired, soon to discovered that I was leave behind quite far from Yong/Sam that still going strong.

I continue cycling, with very less traffic, I begin to take inner route on each corner to reduce my distance and keep focusing that I’ll reach Ringlet before I gave up. There are a lot of small huts on the roadside own by orang asli villagers. Most of them give me support whenever I pass them. Some even say “Laju lagi, laju lagi”. Thanks to my 2 others guys, there waited for me at least 3-4 times. Otherwise, I already give up and might be heading down at that time.

RINGLET TOWN

It was a downhill for at least 2km to ringlet town and we stop for food and drinks. We rested quite a while before we decided to continue up to Tanah Rata. After all it’s only about 15km away. First 5km was relatively flat and I begin to get excited that I manage to reach Tanah Rata soon. I was WRONG. The last 10km it’s all uphill (passing by Tea Garden in between) before reaching Tanah Rata town.

The gradient at least 12% for the total 10km and I’m cycling at 8-10km/h using my last granny gear 39x27. The climb that’s so steep and I had to stop in between.

I’m so amazed that I finally reach Tanah Rata and asking my friend to stop for photo. The pain, exhausted, sore, numb all disappeared when I put my foot down on top on Tanah Rata.

Passes the 10km climb makes the next climb quite easy, from Tanah Rata to Brinchang that is about 5km away. Passing by Brinchang town, there is a long 1km with steep uphill. The last 100m causing me stop immediately. It was so steep and I need to push the bike for the rest 100m to our resting area.

We stop for lunch at local restaurant. We spend nearly an hour at Brinchang town before we realize its time to go down back to Tapah.

It was fun when riding down as most of the route its downhill. There are a few uphill before reaching Tanah Rata. Again we pass Tanah Rata without stopping and soon we are already at 10km steep downhill. I manage to reach 55-60kmh. With too many sharp corners and cars, it was dangerous. Hard braking causing my hand numbs forcing me to switch holding position every 15sec.

At Ringlet it was starting to rain and we are still continuing down the hill to Tapah. Road begin to be slippery and with lots of tight corners, I was left behind couple of meters from the other that is going fast on the downhill.

I was lucky when Yong slow down and waited for me to join him for the downhill. Turns and turns, I keep wondering will the next turn it’s the end. Lack of concentrating while cycling into one of the tight corner throwing me off the road. I’m lucky somehow there is no incoming vehicle.

Unfortunately, my front tire flat out about 20km to go.

I stop and with the help from Yong, we change the tire on the roadside. The rain its still heavy and knowing the lightning might strike anytime, without any inspection to the tires, I quickly change the tube and soon I’m on the road again. Without proper inflate, I begin to cycle down and when I pass the Kuala Woh junction, I know I safely pass the forest area.

At car park, I inspect my wheels and the tires had been cut about 2cm long and the tube is already inflated out from the tires. It can be easily puncture but luck really on my side, I have no problem till car park.

At 4pm, we safely arrive at Tapah town and already begin to load the bikes into the car. Soon we heading back to Sitiawan and it were another successful achievement in my cycling career.

Lata Iskandar (a spectacular waterwall view on background)

Sam at bridge (half way point to Ringlet town

I did it! I'm at TANAH RATA!

My latest ride

2007-12-03T13:34:00.000+08:00

This is my latest ride

Frame : Trigon Full Carbon Frameset with Trigon Carbon fork

Drivetrain : Ultegra 10s with Pazzaz Carbon Crank

Handlebar + Stem : Trigon EX Carbon Integrated

Saddle : Selle Italia

Seatpost : Trigon EX Carbon Integrated

Bootlecage : Look Carbon

Wheelset : Cosmic Carbone SSC

Tire : Continental Tubular Tire

Meter : Cateye Double Wireless Meter with Heartrate function

Pedals : Ultegra

"Tube" day

2007-11-26T12:54:00.000+08:00

On 25 November, after 2 weeks completed this year Powerman 2007 and being resting since then, we decided to give ourself a long distance ride. After a few ideas from our fellow cyclist, we decided to give it a 120km distance, from Sitiawan-Lekir-Seberang Perak-Telun Intan and back.

It was the most adventurer route with only paddy field, rubber tree and oil palm trees all the way. Although is generally flat, the heat and wind is the only challenge. No tail wind, all head wind to-fro and sometimes when we are lucky, the wind able to pick up to 40km/h causing you immediate full stop.

On early sunday morning, 6 guys turn up for this torturer ride. We set off at 7.30am and our first tube goes off somewhere along paddy field, half way to Teluk Intan. With the sun rises so quickly, the road condition become warm and soon turn to hot. Without properly check what's causing the puncture, we change the tube and soon we off again.

Upon reaching Teluk Intan town, the tube goes off again. Rather then changing the tube again on the road side, we push the bike about 700m to a malay stall for breakfast. Noticing there is tiny metal stick out from tire causing the tube flat out again. Thats the second.

On the way, a rider decided to get into the wind tunnel created by a big truck passing by us travelling at about 55km/h flat road. Unfortunately, in less than 1 km, the front wheel hit into a manhole and causing my 3rd tube to be used. Luckily the wheel still straight.

We continue the ride and one of our rider seems to have a slightly puncture in the rear wheel causing air to go out bit by bit. We are however out of tube and decided to inflate every 3-4km of riding. However, due to heat and time comsuming, we decided to stop and waiting to be pick up by a lorry about 30km from home.

45mins gone, while chit-chatting by the road, its my turn to have a flat. A very loud SSSSssssss heard from my rear wheel causing flat almost immediately. It might due to heat that increasing the pressure inside the tube.

At 1.30pm, we safely arrive home and that day had causes us 5 tubes out of 6 guys.

Note : Pic above showing us resting under a tree while waiting to be pick up.

POWERMAN 2007

2007-11-25T13:42:00.000+08:00

POWERMAN 2007

11th November 2007 (Seri Manjung, Perak)

Being as a spectator for 2 years, i finally make up my mind to participate this event. All started 1 month before the event. This topic brought up after half way cycling for 45km in distance with friends in a malay stall for "teh tarik".

First year entering powerman, i'm not ready for full category distance so i decided to try out sprint category.

Since i never did any run before, I did my first 10km run over an hour and have to take 2 days leave from work. Planning to drop out from the race after my 10km run but with the support from friends, i register myself and getting all the goodies stuff on saturday, 1 day before the event. Heart pounding so strong causing me couldnt get enough sleep on the night before the event.

Once i get ready my powergel, helmet, bikes and jersey, i went out to the transition area as early as 6.30am. With so many athletes - local and international participant, nearly over 700 of them makes my spirit higher and higher. "i know i can do it" i say to myself.

With no background on running, i did my first run about 35mins. Not bad for first timer, i say to myself. The bike leg is quite fast as i manage to complete just over an hour. However on the 2nd run, i was terrible tired and goes walking for a couple of times. Many athletes overtook by my side about half way to go.

Thanks to the support by many athletes, i manage to goes on and completed the whole course. I position myself 76 out of 87 finishers for sprint category at 2h 34m 41.

It was a great experience for a first timer into international event. i'll be joining again next year.

Note: Pic above taken after the Sprint Category has ended.