The Gear Behind Ken's Ride
These are the items Ken has actually used while training for his nearly 600-mile ride around Lake Michigan. Each recommendation comes with the story of where he used it, what he noticed, and why it earned a place on this page.
Affiliate disclosure: Richard Webster participates in the Amazon Associates Program and may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Any commission helps cover the website and costs associated with Ken's trip.
VIKAMAKA Waterproof Rain Suit
A wet training ride gave Ken exactly the test he needed. The rain suit kept him dry without restricting his pedaling, and he stayed comfortable enough to keep riding instead of cutting the day short.
One detail he especially liked was the double-hood design. One hood fits under the helmet and another goes over it. When the ride warmed up, he could pull up the pant legs and unzip the suit while still on the bicycle.
WHY KEN LIKES IT
• Kept him dry through a real rainy ride
• Did not restrict his movement on the bicycle
• Double hood works with a cycling helmet
• Easy to vent when the temperature rises
RZ Mask RZM3
Wildfire smoke made lung protection part of Ken's training plan. He wore the RZM3 on a Holy Hill ride to find out whether he could exercise comfortably while reducing his exposure to smoke particles.
The mask felt different at first, but it was more comfortable than Ken expected. The release valves made breathing out easier, his glasses did not fog, and he was able to continue riding through a headwind.
WHY KEN LIKES IT
• Practical for staying active when outdoor air is poor
• Exhalation valves made breathing out feel easier
• Did not fog his glasses during the test ride
• Comfortable enough for an extended cycling workout
This is Ken's personal experience, not medical advice. Check current air-quality guidance and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Breathe Right Extra Strength Nasal Strips
Ken tested these clear nasal strips before his 56-mile ride to Oshkosh. He wanted a simple way to breathe more comfortably through his nose during the cold start and long hours on the bicycle.
WHY KEN LIKES THEM
• Easy to apply before a ride
• Drug-free and made for sensitive skin
• Helped him breathe more comfortably through his nose
• Small enough to keep in his cycling bag
Cloud 9 Cruiser Select Airflow Saddle
Ken used the Cloud 9 saddle for several years, especially when he weighed more than 200 pounds and was riding shorter distances. He found it comfortable and dependable for those rides. As his weight dropped to about 165 pounds and his training distances grew to 40 and 50 miles, he began testing a narrower ROCKBROS saddle for longer days.
WHY KEN LIKES IT
• Wide, cushioned cruiser shape
• Suspension springs help soften rough pavement
• Comfortable for relaxed and shorter rides
• A proven saddle from years of Ken's training
