That’s Right, I AM Dangerous
Hmmmm. What did I do during the weekend? Well, I went on a couple great mountain bike rides — one on Pole Line Pass, one on Tibble Fork — getting to enjoy perfect weather and trail conditions:
Not to mention the incredible beauty of the changing of the color of the trees:
But I didn’t get to write about those rides.
Oh, also I spent some time working on the next big Team Fatty giveaway, which will in fact be bigger and more awesome than previously anticipated.
But I didn’t get to write about that contest.
In fact, I didn’t get to work on any of the parts of this blog I like to work on, because yesterday — when I would be doing my writing for today’s post — I went to take a look at my site and saw — instead of my site — this:
I think it’s safe to say that I freaked out. A little bit.
Or maybe a lot.
I then checked my email and noticed that approximately 150 of you (thanks to each of you for the heads-up by the way) had sent me email saying you were getting the same thing.
Which meant that instead of writing, I was going to get to spend the evening troubleshooting.
A Quick Fix
It didn’t take long to figure out that the one part of the site I don’t control — what ads are shown — had to be the culprit. So I stripped the site of all the codes that put paying ads in my site, then submitted a malware review request to Google.
And as of this morning, they give my site a clean bill of health. Hooray.
Quick Fixes Might Be Permanent
The thing is, there have been several times that ads I’m none too thrilled with have appeared on my site. And for the past couple months been considering the possibility that the money — which is not a huge amount, alas — I get from ads is simply not worth it.
The problem is, I spend an enormous amount of time on this blog. Getting a little bit of money — even if it works out to be less than mininum wage — for my effort is kind of nice.
But not so nice that I’m willing to have my site contain malware.
So maybe I’ll keep the changes I’ve made. I dunno.
You Tell Me
I’d like your input. Do you think I should:
- Go ahead and go back to serving ads, but make sure the company that provides ads has their act together?
- Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors, giving them exclusive rights to advertising?
- Don’t go after any money at all through advertising, but instead maybe do a “Best of Fatty” book sometime and hope a bunch of people buy it?
- Quit worrying about making money altogether and just do this blog for free?
- Something else?
Seriously, I look forward to your thoughts.
Comment by Runnergirl | 09.20.2010 | 9:42 am
Am I really the first to comment?? Wow!
Anywho, love your blog, never read the ads. But if they help you out, the I vote for options 2 and 3 – look for site sponsors AND put out a Best of Fatty book. Not only would I buy it, I would buy it for all my friends, along with some DZ Nuts and make it their Christmas gift…
Comment by Peter | 09.20.2010 | 9:42 am
Option 2 (exclusive site sponsoring) combined with option 3 (Book of Fatty) seems to be the best solution. Keep up the good work!
Comment by Bill Thomson | 09.20.2010 | 9:44 am
First two options look the best.You deserve some compensation for your intellectual property and the entertainment that we get from our cyber ride alongs the trail and roads of America.
Comment by Bryan (not that one) | 09.20.2010 | 9:46 am
First option. I think you deserve to get some extra cash for the effort you put into fatcyclist.com.
Love the fall foliage pics! Mountain bike rides and autumn leaves… is there a more perfect combination? (Excluding food combos of course.)
Comment by ABSmith | 09.20.2010 | 9:47 am
While the idea of doing a site for free is nice, I don’t think it’s very realistic. You have made a name for yourself as a blogger and you should try to make some money from that – even if it’s a small amount that just goes toward site hosting and maintenance. If you are uncomfortable finding a company to continue serving up ads, I think the idea of finding a small group of sponsors is awesome! Go for it. Don’t discount the amazing work you’ve done and connections you have made.
Comment by Hannah Hawley | 09.20.2010 | 9:48 am
I say go for broke!
Go for a Best of Fatty book deal.
AND
Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors!
Comment by evil3 | 09.20.2010 | 9:49 am
The adds are a nice way to make some money to pay for the site, although at times when they are flashing like cray I get a little annoyed when I am trying to read something.
Really it is up to you, if you can keep the site up and are able to pay for it with out the help of adds then I say you can do with out them.
On that note I think if you decide to drop the adds (or the paying adds) then put some up (if you can) of the companies that help out with your contests and live strong. Really that is on way you can go to help support the companies that help support a bigger cause (keep in mind these could be simple free adds that don’t have any form of flash, so they are just a pic that acts as a link).
On a side note, I think it was the G add that was on the home page the other day that caused the issue, as it wanted another plug in for it to work right (isn’t flash and java enough).
Comment by evil3 | 09.20.2010 | 9:50 am
^BTW G = gatorade
Comment by GJ Jackie | 09.20.2010 | 9:53 am
Fatty, I love the book idea. But best short-term fix may be the sponsor. “Fat Cyclist brought to you by Shimano” is way better than all those annoying ads.
How many hours per week do you work on your blog? Let’s say it’s 25 hrs at minimum wage then it may only cost a sponsor around $10,000 annually. That’s a huge bargain for any big bike company marketing budget.
Comment by Squirrelhead | 09.20.2010 | 9:55 am
I say do both #1 and #2. #1 allows you to have the little bit of money you had before still coming in. While that is happening you can start looking for ads from companies that you use and respect. The hope is that you make more $ from those companies and after some time get enough ads from several of them that you can drop the #1 option. Either way, you deserve something for your efforts and hard work.
Comment by Eva | 09.20.2010 | 9:55 am
I’d suggest :
- Quit worrying
- Write the book that will sell incredibly
- Make some money on the blog where you have some control on the ads – site sponsors and reliable ads cies
- use your wisdom and ask Lisa for higher wisdom
We’ll be back whatever you do!
Comment by Diane | 09.20.2010 | 9:55 am
Here’s another vote for options 2 and 3….
Comment by Ian | 09.20.2010 | 9:56 am
Do the book anyway, really a seperate project. I would explore exclusive sponsors and see if it works for you financially, if not, keep the ads. I have never found them to be all that annoying and certainly not to the point of turning me off your site.
Comment by ChrisMPLS | 09.20.2010 | 9:56 am
I vote for site sponsors. I use AdBlock Plus, so I never see any of your ads anyway.
Write the book, I’ll buy that.
Comment by Squirrelhead | 09.20.2010 | 9:58 am
I also like the book idea but would still do the ads on the site.
Comment by James | 09.20.2010 | 9:59 am
I think you should just write for free, like most other bloggers out here in cyberspace. Seriously, it is entertaining, but it is not that good . . . . to turn it into a commercial endeavor sorta ruins the idea of blogging to be begin with.
Comment by Greg | 09.20.2010 | 10:01 am
Fatty, I’d say that you don’t want to compromise your site integrity by the whole malware situation, but if there’s some way you could continue showing adds and making money then GO FOR IT. You deserve to make some $$ from all your hard work.
And, I agree with most everyone else: write the book as well! 2 or 3 sources of income are better than 1, right?
Comment by marion | 09.20.2010 | 10:01 am
Some of the ads are annoying and detract from your blog, which is why I go to the blog, not for the annoying ads.
Comment by Nooch | 09.20.2010 | 10:03 am
Just an aside, because fatty, really, you need to write a book since BikeSnob did it, but when you do, let me know and we’ll set up a signing at the shop I work at here in Jersey.
That said, we’re hosting BikeSnobNYC October 23rd at Cyclesport in Park Ridge, NJ.
But, no, Fatty, you should get something for the work you do. So find a sponsor or two, like the Snob did.
Comment by b. murphy | 09.20.2010 | 10:04 am
I didn’t even realize your site HAD ads, thanks to google reader and RSS. I’d suggest writing that book. Or maybe ask Lance to loan you one of those giant novelty checks. Whatever happens, keep blogging. I really enjoy the content.
Comment by Mary from NC | 09.20.2010 | 10:05 am
sponsorship. get rid of the ads. your blog takes forever to upload b/c of all the ads. FYI I did find it humorous that one day last week when I logged on the top banner ad was for “pantiliners”. Given the preponderance of male readers, I was surprised Always would choose your blog to advertise on. Perhaps they know there are women out here that read you too
Comment by skippy | 09.20.2010 | 10:05 am
Advertising “Physically Challenged Events and sites would be a Public Service that is lacking currently !
IF you are getting “Turnips” dumping “Viaqgre, etc” to your site then they are wasting their time as i like all others are too busy to read and visit ! YOU provide a valued service to your readers and add value to our lives so whatever works for you is good for us !
Back in Austria from Vuelta after hitching both ways, those following my blog will get emails of the exploits enjoyed but may be haphazard postings as i now have to organise to be in London Fundraising at the weekend which means another drive across europe visiting “Sponsors” !
Vuelta Espana lacked “sparkle ” as your mates at Radio Shack were elsewhere ! That is not JUST my opinion.
Keep the pictures coming they are brilliant after Espana !
Comment by TMZ | 09.20.2010 | 10:07 am
Definitely site sponsors — probably more money and none of these problems.
Comment by Nahh | 09.20.2010 | 10:10 am
I understand that it’s nice to make a little money off something you like to do, that’s how I approach photography.
If you could get 1-2 big name sponsors, that would definitely be your best bet, but also the hardest to do.
You probably don’t get too much of a cut off the merchandise you sell, but that’s also a source of income you might consider, to just decide if ads are really worth the hassle.
Cheers, I love your blog, and wish you the best.
Comment by Narndt | 09.20.2010 | 10:11 am
Write a book. For realsies.
Comment by Jen | 09.20.2010 | 10:11 am
Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors, giving them exclusive rights to advertising? – my pick :)
Comment by mikE | 09.20.2010 | 10:12 am
Options a, b and c. Take the money and run!
Where can I pre-order the book?
mikE
Comment by bikemike | 09.20.2010 | 10:12 am
Really liked it when it was the three amigos of blogdome. Elden, Dug and Bob. Simple and entertaining. Not that it’s not entertaining now, just kinda in a different direction. It doesn’t have to be long to be good, wait, that didn’t come out right.
I guess it’s hard to go back to the farm once you’ve seen the lights of big city stardom.
Comment by Brian | 09.20.2010 | 10:15 am
Thoughts:
I think Scott Adams (of Dilbert) tried to package his blog into a book and it sold terribly and he found it cannibalized his other revenue streams (http://dilbertblog.typepad.com/the_dilbert_blog/2007/11/going-forward.html). He got mad and went offline for a bit then got over it and came back to blogging.
The standard Google Ads model doesn’t pay much. Guy Kawasaki posted a while back about it providing about $280 a month for 2.5 million views. So, even if you’re popular, it doesn’t pay much and then you still have to actually get Google to write you a check (http://www.longtail.com/the_long_tail/2007/01/dont_quit_your_.html).
If you can make it work, the dedicated sponsors route seems a little better. I think that is the route that I’ve seen work on sites with a niche, dedicated audience. For example, penny-arcade.com (video games) and stackoverflow.com (programmer Q&A) both follow that model and only show ads that they explicitly support.
Comment by Jenni | 09.20.2010 | 10:15 am
That scary message would be enough to make me stop reading if it were to keep happening, so I vote to definitely get rid of the ads which I never read or click on anyway. Like literally, NEVER. Or vet them much more carefully.
I do not vote to have sponsors either- the line can be very fine anyway when you’re so heavily supported by company giveaways- if you get sponsored officially, you will likely appear to be bought and that just stinks.
I’m in for buying the book. Do some math, tell us how many books you need to sell to equal the ad revenue.
Don’t sell out Fatty. Don’t do it. You will lose a lot of people, I know this.
Comment by Mark in Vancouver BC | 09.20.2010 | 10:18 am
#1 and #2. I bought a “best of blog” book before and unlike a blog the content goes stale very fast. Flip it a few times and put it on the shelf.
And can I trouble you talk about my friend’s crazy stunt this Wednesday?
cheers
Mark in Vancouver
Comment by Dep820 | 09.20.2010 | 10:20 am
Talk to Lance. He will be your exclusive Sponsor.
Comment by Doug (WAY upstate NY) | 09.20.2010 | 10:22 am
Site sponsor(s) and book. No doubt.
Leaves are beginning to change in my area. Love riding in the fall…….
Comment by John | 09.20.2010 | 10:23 am
I’ll agree with many of the previous comments and say a combo of options 2 and 3. I think a ‘Best of Book’ would be fun especially with all the great pictures you include.
And the idea of you writing a book is a good one, too.
Comment by geraldatwork | 09.20.2010 | 10:23 am
Don’t know which idea is the best but I think you deserve to make some money from your blog. Really why not? Book idea might be nice but probably not a great money making venture.
Comment by Jim Tolar | 09.20.2010 | 10:24 am
Fatty,
I recommend the “identify one or two good companies and get them to sponsor”. But even keeping it the way it is (with ads) beats doing it for free.
jt
Comment by Neel Disciple | 09.20.2010 | 10:24 am
Pure marketing viewpoint here: Pay attention to two major things with advertisers — Their “Q” rating AND their cyber-reliability. It won’t help you to have advertisers that pay on time if their links corrupt your site…or…if simply having them feels/reads like a ’sell-out’ to your loyal followers. I know its a fine line, but you are in the enviable position of attracting reliable advertising revenue that continues to help your image (and theirs!) AND who vet their advertising links/content thoroughly.
Comment by Ryan Corradini | 09.20.2010 | 10:25 am
I always assumed the sidebar ads were hand-picked by you anyway, and they carry a lot more weight (for me at least) than any randomly-inserted AdWords junk. Stick with your core ad partners like Carborocket and Twin Six, they’re the ones that love and support you and your core mission anyway.
Although a FattyBook would be pretty cool, too.
Comment by mark | 09.20.2010 | 10:25 am
Option 4. But I just read the RSS feed rather than visiting the site, so I don’t particularly care. However, if other options lead to more trickle down benefits to friends of fatty, then I would advocate whatever makes you the most money and look forward to seeing you strolling around Alpine with a hooker on each arm and a suitcase full of blow.
Comment by Bleeder | 09.20.2010 | 10:27 am
What about setting up some kind of donation drive once or twice a year to cover the cost of the site and then a little something extra. I’m sure there’s enough people out there who enjoy the site as much as I do who wouldn’t mind chipping in a couple of bucks besides that #1 and #2 are good options. I’d buy a book
Comment by bobbie | 09.20.2010 | 10:28 am
Combine 2 & 3…
Comment by Jenn | 09.20.2010 | 10:29 am
I love ad-free blogs, but I don’t begrudge you the income. You spend a lot of time writing the blog and we all enjoy coming to read it. I’d choose option 2 if ad-free isn’t realistic.
Comment by Randy | 09.20.2010 | 10:31 am
Fatty you need to make all the coin you can!Accept all the ads you can.What’s a little malware between friends?I enjoyed see the Google spam alert.That tells me that Google is really doing something to protect my computer.Besides the alert was a very nice shade of red.It reminded me of your outstanding sunburn photo.Remember this is a community of “ONE” and you are the one.Don’t worry, be happy and listen to the sound of a full piggy bank.
Comment by Doug | 09.20.2010 | 10:31 am
Fatty, I’ve pretty much assumed that all this amazing material would eventually end up in a book and think you’d be crazy to NOT eventually go that route. You’ve shared an amazing story over the past few years and I think a book would be a natural way to increase the readership (and exposure of the issues you’ve become a champion for) beyond the online cycling community to a potentially much broader audience who may have little or no interest in cycling.
As for the ads, I think the book should happen either way and should have not impact on the decision about ads. Let’s face it, ads are a bummer but necessary evil and if they are more of a hassel for you than they are worth, then dump them. If you feel the small amount of income is worth the inconvienience then keep them. We trust you to continue being diligent on our behalf.
Comment by Diane | 09.20.2010 | 10:31 am
Option two. Take on a couple of sponsors and call it good. Making a little money is great… fighting malware blows.
Comment by NYCCarlos | 09.20.2010 | 10:33 am
Hey Fatty,
I work for a VERY responsible online adnetwork. My company (interclick – http://www.interclick.com – publicly traded as ICLK) is proud of the quality of our publishers and advertisers. I’m pretty sure we could bring you on as a managed publisher with little hassle and maximum gain. No more malware or feminine hygiene ads on your site. I’m having a guy from our publisher team contact you, but if you’re more comfortable contacting me just drop me an e-mail.
-Carlos
P.S.: You should do a “best of fatty” book too. I’d buy a copy :)
Comment by Donna | 09.20.2010 | 10:36 am
Hey Fatty, grab yourself a company to vet your ads for you, go for the cash and yes, a “Best of Fatty” would be an awesome addition to my book collection….
Keep rollin’..
Comment by jlaudolff | 09.20.2010 | 10:36 am
Don’t tell your advertisers, but I read this on the yahoo rss reader so never see the ads. But sponsors are cool and there are enough reading this that if you can get compensated you should. No idea how to prevent malware though.
Hey what’s taking so long to publish the book? If I had that much material, I’d have the book published a long time ago.
Comment by jamesnvc | 09.20.2010 | 10:38 am
I’d say sponsorship is probably the best way…but have you considered just soliciting donatations from your readers? I’m sure many of us would be willing to kick you some cash for the joy you’ve brought us…
Comment by XPO | 09.20.2010 | 10:38 am
The book is ALWAYS a good option, your fans will buy one.
For the site, I would recommend paid sponsors. You have a great audience that vendors should be willing to pay to access. You will have to do the selling, but a good model would have advertisers offer discounts to your readers.
Comment by Fat Lad UK (No relation) | 09.20.2010 | 10:41 am
Yet another vote for options 2 & 3.
I don’t look at the ads either, but am happy they’re there if it helps you out & keeps your blog up & running!
For what it’s worth – you’re not a “blogger” anymore, you’re a fundraising institution – perhaps you can sell some wristbands with “FatStrong” on them! I waive my rights on this logo!
Comment by DavidV | 09.20.2010 | 10:41 am
I’d say option 2 is good. But if you want to put ads up, use google ads, at least they are usually related to the site.
Comment by Don Piering | 09.20.2010 | 10:41 am
Can the ‘best of fatty’ be ready in time for Christmas? I want mine signed, please….
Seriously, do the book…many will buy it. We understand that you need to keep some ads too..ideally from a couple sponsors, if you can’t find that, then open it up.
Comment by KanyonKris | 09.20.2010 | 10:42 am
1 – Why not make some $ from ads? If you can’t find a good ad service (no malware) then ditch ads.
That said, some of the ads have been funny. I liked the Playtex sports tampons that showed up recently.
Comment by Philly Jen | 09.20.2010 | 10:44 am
First, talk to the member of your team who works for firm that vets and matches appropriate advertising pools to online publishers (Option #1). He’ll figure out a way to help you…because because he’s nice like that.
Only go with specific sponsors (Option #2) if Option #1 fails. I’m w/Jenni on this.
Self-publishing is the way to go with the book. (Option #3). But I think that you will find an even greater audience if you can release Susan’s YA novel first, or at the same time.
FWIW, I’m glad this is end of the Playtex products on your site. As a female, what I really want to see is Twin Six producing a women’s Speedy London jersey…Keep calm and carry on…
Comment by Tim | 09.20.2010 | 10:45 am
Marketing is what I do professionaly and this may be biased, but advertising is the right thing to do. You have some great companies that you have and continue to work with and they should become official sponsors. I checked your web statistics and as a general purpose site, they would only draw the revenue you were getting, but as qualified hits (bike owners that spend money…..to put it simply) would easily attract decent advertising that you could control. Marketing Fatty. Sounds like fun.
Comment by The Cheat | 09.20.2010 | 10:54 am
2 & 3
Comment by roan | 09.20.2010 | 10:57 am
WOW !!! So many replies sooo soon. I agree with a ton of others options 1,2 AND 3.
I would buy # 3, the book or maybe you need several books. Maybe even one with pop-ups to display the canyon rides. With such a great history behind you it may be difficult to known where to start. So here’s a hint, “In the Beginning…”
Comment by MattC | 09.20.2010 | 10:57 am
I’m going to be brutally honest here, but it’s worth exactly what you are paying for it (zero). I think you started the blog as a thing for YOU. Sure it’s LOTS of hours, but I like to think you still do it for the love of it. The writing, the stories, your amazing ability to come up with insanely funny yet quite clever posts. I admit I have been a tiny bit annoyed at the ads…but just figured it was the price of admission. Surely wouldn’t bother me at ALL if it were to remain ad-free.
However…Sponsors…now THAT is an entirely different animal. What you/we are doing…the quest we are on to beat cancer. You do fantastic work organizing giveaways and things to entice us to cough up our hard earned dough, or just to earn more dough on our pages (LOVE that part!). I’d think THAT prob takes more time than the blog. Anyhow, whether you actually GET sponsors, or just do your OWN banner/work for the folk who are good to you/us in our endeavour…That would be cool. And we could all see what companies are stepping up if you simply had their info on the sides of your site. Or something like that.
OK..that said, I also feel that if you can make a buck or 2 doing something you love, then that can’t be bad either. So I’m just saying that ads for stuff I have no interest in won’t keep me away. (And btw, I WILL buy your book when you finally do it (will you do autographed copies like Jill Homer did?) It would be there proudly next to my Bobke autographed book. (Floyd’s is no longer on that list…trying to figure out just what to do with it…burning is too good for it. Had to move it off the shelf so it doesn’t contaminate Bobkes book with rat-fink tattletale cooties or something).
Comment by Darwin | 09.20.2010 | 10:58 am
Google will do anything for a buck including allowing pretty much any and all ads.
Comment by MattC | 09.20.2010 | 11:01 am
I meant to say your book would be there next to Jills and Bobke’s book…looking back it kind of made it sound like Jill’s book is banished somewhere and not with Bob’s. Do you all still read her site? She is just friggin AMAZING! I am such a wuss in comparison! Any time I think I know how to suffer, I just go to her site and realize what a baby I am. She is a hero of mine.
Comment by Heidi | 09.20.2010 | 11:03 am
I never click on ads due to the possibility of viruses. And oh, I wouldn’t miss the ones that flash!
I haven’t read through the eleventybillion (okay, I exaggerate) comments so I don’t know if it’s been suggested yet, but would you consider a Donate button?
Comment by PMinDC | 09.20.2010 | 11:03 am
Leave it as is. I use firefox with ABP. I’ve never seen an ad on your site.
Comment by Clyde Cyclist | 09.20.2010 | 11:10 am
I would definitely buy the book. Also you could have a sponsor tab that I would click on if I knew they were endorsed by Fatty.
Comment by FF | 09.20.2010 | 11:19 am
2 and 3
Comment by Jenn Sutherland | 09.20.2010 | 11:20 am
Go for options 2-3 – by selecting sponsors you personally respect, you’ll benefit your readers who will say “Fatty really likes Twin Six gear, maybe I’ll check them out” for my next purchase…pantiliners – not so much. And for the book – definitely go non-traditional – either publish an ebook for download or go through a self-publishing channel like Blurb.com (who I used for a cookbook excerpted from my blog). Your tribe of loyal Fatties will buy it regardless, so get the most revenue you can from the transaction.
And finally…add a donate button to your site, and make occasional requests that readers put $5 in the till to support your efforts. You may be surprised…or at least not losing much money over your Google ads. ;)
Comment by blinddrew | 09.20.2010 | 11:26 am
Have to say i read the site with an ad-blocker on so don’t notice them anyway. If they were from cycling / food / cancer related concerns then i might read them.
Targeted sponsorship could be the way to go.
Oh yes, and i am sooooooo jealous of your weather; we’ve hardly even had a summer in the UK.
Comment by Paul Guyot | 09.20.2010 | 11:28 am
You’re probably not reading this as I’m so late in commenting, but…
Money from the Internet is never going to get you a new single speed. It’s pennies. Even the big money makers are making pennies when you divide it by the time spent on it.
A book… uh, no. Working in the publishing industry from time to time, I can tell you, about 96% of all authors don’t make a living.
If you’re looking for more pennies, and something cool to have on a shelf, and to be the center of attention at a signing at your local LBS, then do it. But don’t do it for money.
You obviously enjoy writing and you obviously love the attention the blog gives you. But even if you’re generating 10,000 unique hits a day, and even if you can say you’re buddies with Lance and Levi, in the real – meaning, non-cyber – world, no one knows what a Fat Cyclist is.
And as SNAKES ON A PLANE proved to Hollywood, et al, what is huge on the Internet is usually nothing off of it.
So have fun. Write your blog. Do open letters to get responses from famous cycling folk, keep us laughing, and most of all, keep Susan’s Fight at the foundation of everything. You have helped raise incredible amounts of money for the Fight.
That – for me – is the underlying message of all things Fatty:
Fight Like Susan.
Really well put, Paul. Thanks! (And I read all my comments, always.). – FC
Comment by Anthony | 09.20.2010 | 11:28 am
I use the Adblock Plus add-on in Mozilla so I never new your site even had ads! I’d stay strip them, keeps the blog more personal.
Comment by Brandon | 09.20.2010 | 11:29 am
I go for option #5… have your Fat Cyclist gear be available all year long instead of just once per year and use part of that for yourself and your time. I know the proceeds go to a great cause, but your whole SITE is for a great cause.
Just a thought since sometimes people are in a position to buy a jersey at certain times of the year, but want to at another time.
Comment by velodrone | 09.20.2010 | 11:44 am
Contact CamelBak, I went out and bought some podium bottles after you described them…
Comment by the greg | 09.20.2010 | 11:45 am
i say get some dedicated advertisers. quality companies who put out products u believe in.
Comment by MattC | 09.20.2010 | 11:57 am
btw…I now have FOUR Camelback podium bottles, 2 sets of Arriva headphones w/ 3 Ipod shuffles, and a SWEET pair of Sidi road shoes among other things thanks to your recommendations. Also one (so far) TwinSix jersey (NOT counting the 3 Fatty jerseys). Just so you know. (I already had swimming headphones and a waterproof housing for my mp3 player, or I’d have gotten one of those that you have also). I like it that you are our ‘crash-test-dummy’… and use things and tell us what you think…along w/ your disclaimer as to whether you bought it or not.
Comment by Mark | 09.20.2010 | 12:05 pm
Sponsors, no flashy ads. All of bicycle racing is sponsors, why not you? As popular as this blog is, you’d have no problem finding them (and you’ve already proven beyond a doubt you can find sponsors!) You’d cover your costs and probably have some left over for The Fight and a latte after your rides.
Comment by Henrik Wist | 09.20.2010 | 12:11 pm
I’d either go for the sponsor or let the readers pay for the site. You might want to look at flattr (http://flattr.com/).
Cheers!
Comment by Sean | 09.20.2010 | 12:11 pm
The ads are wasted on me as I read everything via RSS feeds and don’t actually visit the site. So go ahead and put the ads in if you get money for them. :)
Comment by mnbiker | 09.20.2010 | 12:17 pm
The ads on the side are fine. I hated the ads at the top of the page.
Comment by IronStu | 09.20.2010 | 12:18 pm
2 and 3 (I like the book idea a lot), or maybe 1 if you can ensure your site doesn’t get screwed up again. Regardless, I think you deserve something for the great entertainment and information your blog provides.
Comment by Rob L | 09.20.2010 | 12:18 pm
1 or 2. I’m kinda missing the recent ad’s for Weight Watchers in the top area. I do enjoy your eq reviews though I already use some of the stuff.
Comment by Al W | 09.20.2010 | 12:18 pm
I vote for 2 and 3 as well.
Norton warned me of an attack when I signed on to your site yesterday but no damage here.
Keep up the good work.
Love the pics.
Comment by Annette L | 09.20.2010 | 12:22 pm
I bet you could get some sponsored ads on your own.
Comment by RANTWICK | 09.20.2010 | 12:26 pm
Advertise away. I see zero harm in getting a little something back for your hard work. I’m rationalizing a little rationalizing on this, though, because i have ads on my blog.
Speaking of my blog, you should consider entering your tree picture in my contest, prize of dubious value yet to be determined…
http://rantwick.blogspot.com/2010/09/first-annual-rantwick-autumn-tree.html
Comment by Paul | 09.20.2010 | 12:29 pm
I think you deserve money for your time (because your blog is the highlight of my time at work, and sometimes my day) but I also think that it’s important to have ads that YOU are thrilled about. I know a few times I’ve been reading your fantastic blog and seen some ads that I thought were a bit bizarre to be on your website. If you don’t like the ad, don’t use it, instead find ads for people who you do like!
Comment by Sean | 09.20.2010 | 12:32 pm
You deserve the compensation… is there any way to get some locked-in sponsors that are sure to be legit?
Tell me the Top Gun reference was intentional… you made my day.
Comment by Matthew | 09.20.2010 | 12:42 pm
I’m okay with any of those solutions, especially the Fatty Bike Book. I’d put it right next to my copy of BSNYC’s book. And if you did a shameless book promotion tour, I’d even try to get you to sign it, just like BSNYC did.
In fact, let me put that on the record. If you go on a shameless book promotion tour, you need to come on down to Eastern Virginia. Mrs. Fatty can shop the outlets too. And we’ve been up to some good trail building with IMBA, so you need to come check that out with the Fattyfly. This place is perfect for singlespeeding.
Comment by Di | 09.20.2010 | 12:48 pm
You *could* go with Google AdSense. They shouldn’t block themselves. ;-) I’ve not had any problems with them.
Comment by Alison Wonderland | 09.20.2010 | 12:49 pm
But if I don’t see playtex ads on this site how am I going to know what kind of feminine products fatty uses? Maybe you could get them to be sponsors?
Seriously, I’d say that if you’ve had ads going for more than a year or two and this is the first problem that you’ve had and it was a quick fix, you should probably just stay where you are. If you do want to change but still get a little cash sponsors are a great idea (and the ads would probably be a little more cycling appropriate).
Ultimately I think you deserve to make a little cash off the blog. (Although if you count all the donations that you elicit, you’re probably the best paid blogger ever so that’s also a consideration.) Basically, you can probably do whatever you want, we’ll keep coming back.
Comment by Jeannette | 09.20.2010 | 12:56 pm
Get a sponser. I never read the adds anyway. Book would be good fun….loved the Blog about the “pain bubbles”.
Comment by graisseux | 09.20.2010 | 1:09 pm
Option 2, if you can. If not, option 1 is fine by me. I think you should do a book anyway, but my preference would be for something new instead of a “best of” collection–it would make more money. I’m a capitalist.
Comment by Lauren | 09.20.2010 | 1:17 pm
Yes on a book (I like the idea of at least some new content in there) and yes on site sponsors! I am adding another vote in the “you deserve some moolah for making an awesome blog” pile.
Comment by James Eastwood | 09.20.2010 | 1:19 pm
Dude, write a book make it available in the UK i will purchase it, ensure profits go into your work on the website as your site is amazing!
Comment by Terry M | 09.20.2010 | 1:22 pm
Get whatever cash you can, you deserve it. As has been noticed, we don’t have to look at them if we don’t want, and I’d say most of your readers are smart enough to recognize which are appropriate or useful and which are crap. Just make sure we can get here! It was a pain to get around the warning to get here and find out there were no new posts. FTR, I’d buy a book too.
Comment by ochsride | 09.20.2010 | 1:22 pm
Time is money and the adverts aren’t bad at all. In fact, I actually bought some Twin 6 stuff because of your site. I assume you didn’t start this as a money-maker but it has evolved into it. Take advantage of the opportunity. Besides, you’ve generated so much fighting cancer, you deserve a few bucks to keep you in gels and tubes.
Hope you take up Levi on his offer of the Gran Fondo next month. I’ll buy you a beer if I get the chance to meet. Jeff
Comment by Turn The Damn Cranks | 09.20.2010 | 1:23 pm
The best answer I’ve seen in the 90 comments I just skimmed is to keep Fatty gear available all year. I know that I can’t be the only person who wanted to buy a jersey when I first discovered your site, but found out that it would be months before I could do so. Bring on the gear!
Comment by tommy | 09.20.2010 | 1:32 pm
You should make as much money as possible while keeping us all entertained.
Comment by Janie_k, Tooting UK | 09.20.2010 | 1:42 pm
Option 2 sans any editorial input though…!
Comment by Rob Churchill | 09.20.2010 | 1:56 pm
It’d be a shame if you couldn’t run adds for TwinSix and other companies that play nice. Just be choosy whose ads you take.
Comment by Jeff | 09.20.2010 | 2:13 pm
Maybe try an affiliate program? Sort of like a site sponsor, but you get a cut of sales made from links to your site.
Although, I’m sure site sponsorship would be quite valuable to a company like Shimano or Gary Fisher.
Comment by JB | 09.20.2010 | 2:20 pm
Option two
Comment by Lori | 09.20.2010 | 2:22 pm
Can you possibly cut the ads and still steal peoples’ private info and attack them through their computers? Because I didn’t know you could do that bro, and I have to say I’m finally impressed.
Comment by Greg | 09.20.2010 | 2:30 pm
I thought you did a post awhile back saying you cleared $15,000 in one month. That sounds like pretty good money to me. Advertise baby.
Comment by Susi | 09.20.2010 | 2:41 pm
I really like reading your blog. I don’t care if there are ads as long as they don’t mess up my computer. I love the book idea.
Comment by rokrider | 09.20.2010 | 2:43 pm
Three words:
PAY PER VIEW
Hey it works for wrestling
Comment by Corey Porter | 09.20.2010 | 2:49 pm
I’d absolutely buy a _Best of Fatty_ book.
Comment by tim | 09.20.2010 | 2:51 pm
2 & 3 you deserve to make money doing this
Comment by lorianne | 09.20.2010 | 2:52 pm
I never pay attention to the ads on your site…but I would buy your book…a signed copy please! Or even better…a book signing in CT!
Comment by Planner | 09.20.2010 | 2:57 pm
Fatty – Pass the hat!!! PayPal, that’s the ticket…!!
Comment by frosty | 09.20.2010 | 3:10 pm
Arrange an advertising deal (money to you / discount to customers) with products that you love yourself… Carborocket, etc. And a book. And a speaking tour.
Comment by Miles Archer | 09.20.2010 | 3:10 pm
Hmm. I still see some ads.
Anyhow. Your writing here is professional quality work. You should get paid, even if it’s a token amount.
Reading a few commments up – What tommy and tim said.
Comment by Tim | 09.20.2010 | 3:21 pm
Paul does keep it in perspective. Thanks Paul. I still think that working with the companies that have supported the fight while doing advertising with them and still getting all kinds of cool “stuff” to do awesome contests is a great path.
Comment by Corey | 09.20.2010 | 3:24 pm
To be honest, I run adblock, so brands and products you mention in your posts get my full attention, and anything in the sidebar doesn’t get viewed at all.
I would pick a vendor or three and manually create some tasteful ads for them, maybe even incorporate them into your header or something.
Comment by Weaky6 | 09.20.2010 | 3:35 pm
I love those maxi pad ads. They rock!
you deserve some dough. Hire a professional to do the selling for you. You deserve more.
Comment by Squirrelhead | 09.20.2010 | 3:51 pm
I really like the idea to make Fatty gear available year round. I am gearless and cannot buy Fatty gear until next year I guess. It is a very sad thing since the Fatty gear rocks so much. I just look at it a dream about one day owning some awesome gear.
Comment by bubba | 09.20.2010 | 4:00 pm
option 2.
Comment by TimRides | 09.20.2010 | 4:05 pm
You want to keep bringing in a few ยข then feel free to do controlled ads or get sponsors. I agree the while “best of” books seem like a good idea, you have to be very, very picky as to what goes in them because they do get very dated very fast (and also agree with the earlier comment that self-publishing may be best if you go the book route).
Comment by VA Biker | 09.20.2010 | 4:05 pm
I think you need some compensation. Any choice 1-3 is A-OK with me. I’ll keep reading no matter what.
Honestly, I can’t say I would buy a book. I haven’t bought Jill Homer’s or Eben Weiss’, but I’m just cheap. There, I said it.
Having said that, I have clicked on bike-related links when you do sponsored contests. I do fantasize about owning stuff like those machines and gear, but it all falls under “want”, not “need”.
Comment by Jen | 09.20.2010 | 4:09 pm
I personally hate the adds at the bottom of the posts. The ones on the side are good but the ones at the bottom of posts drive me crazy. But if you’re making some cash off of it, I’d say go for it. But that’s just my thoughts.
Comment by Beth | 09.20.2010 | 4:19 pm
Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors, giving them exclusive rights to advertising?
>>
That would be my inclination
Comment by Kate | 09.20.2010 | 5:02 pm
I think you deserve to make some money off of this blog – however you decide to do it. The ads aren’t fantastic, but they don’t distract me overmuch either. The book would be fun too. Having a solid couple of advertisers could work well – but at the end of the day, the occasional malware malfunction might not be that much hassle. I don’t know, I’ve never dealt with it.
If I was rich I would just give you a sinecure.
Comment by Erin | 09.20.2010 | 5:15 pm
I actually like to see ad space from great folks like TwinSix. Other than that, I would say at least monetize to the point the site is cost-neutral.
Comment by Peter | 09.20.2010 | 5:24 pm
Get some advertising $$, just tell them to be darn sure that it doesn’t happen again. If it does, then look for some sponsors like Shimano or Trek.
Don’t let one instance of hackertude take away the 1% of the kids’ college fund!
Comment by Loco88 | 09.20.2010 | 5:29 pm
Your site is so awesome that reputable cycling related manufacturers should pay you loads of dough for the privilege of having access to your loyal followers.
So option 2.
Comment by eandjmum | 09.20.2010 | 5:32 pm
Options 2&3 – I would buy your book for myself, my dad, father -in-law and brother at least… so there’s 4 copies sold LOL
I reckon you can work your magic on getting more than a couple of site sponsors :-) Regular income from your blog would be awesome. Time to look out for yourself Fatty… and keep up the awesomeness that is Fat Cyclist :-)
Comment by denise | 09.20.2010 | 5:44 pm
Quit worrying about making money altogether and just do this blog for free.
Comment by stuckinmypedals | 09.20.2010 | 6:03 pm
Here’s another vote for select site sponsors. I really like links to products you endorse like CarboRocket, Twin Six and DZ Nuts, but I’m not so much a fan of random ads. And, yes, you should definitely put together a Best of Fatty book.
Comment by Sansauto | 09.20.2010 | 6:05 pm
What, there is content on this blog? I had always just come here for the ads.
I like the idea of a site sponsor. And a book. I think you should write a book too.
Comment by David Banham | 09.20.2010 | 6:40 pm
Site sponsors would probably be the best option, but the only way that’s going to work is if you can easily leverage your contacts within the industry. If you have to struggle in any way to get advertisers, doing sales calls etc, you’ll spend far more time on administering it than will be worthwhile.
Becoming part of a decent advertising network, (Google Adwords?) will be much less of a demand on your time and will produce adequate results.
In regards to writing a book and monetizing your brand that way, it works brilliantly for some and less well for others. Why not reach out to a few people within the webcomics world? Sounds odd for a cycling blog, but the business model is exactly the same and they’ve been struggling with these issues for YEARS. Micropayments, merch, advertising, subscription paywalls, they’ve been down every path out there. Start with John Allison from http://badmachinery.com/ who works full time on what he does, earning through advertisements, commissions, merch and books.
Comment by naru | 09.20.2010 | 6:41 pm
Site sponsor would be nice. I have enjoyed your blog for a years now so I would even be fine with option 1. You deserve it.
Comment by Fat Chick on a Bike | 09.20.2010 | 7:20 pm
Some bloggers keep graphic links to products they use and recommend on their web site. The links take the reader to the purchase site, and if a purchase is made, the blog gets a small percentage.
I don’t know if it would work for you or be something you’ve interest in. These folks seem to make it work: http://www.downtheroad.org/\
Sort of similar to site sponsors.
Comment by JohnM | 09.20.2010 | 7:42 pm
The ads really aren’t a problem 99.99% of the time.
I’m sure they offset expenses – just keep ‘em and don’t spend a lot of time worrying about it.
And where do I send my cash for the Best of Fatty book? You print it, I’ll buy it.
Comment by bikerman57 | 09.20.2010 | 7:51 pm
My top 2 are:
1. Go ahead and go back to serving ads, but make sure the company that provides ads has their act together?
2. Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors, giving them exclusive rights to advertising?
Forced to pick only one I would go with number 2 modified such that your “exclusive” sponsors aren’t limited to 1 or 2. What the heck…. this is the US of A and a little good honest up front capitalism is still good. Maybe go with a couple primary sponsors but don’t necessarily limit to just those primary sponsors…..
Comment by HeidiR | 09.20.2010 | 8:25 pm
Fatty, I came upon your blog last spring when I started seriously cycling again. You sometimes make me laugh, sometimes cry, but I always come away with something wonderful. I will keep coming back no matter what you decide to do. You have given so much to the fight and you deserve some compensation: ads, sponsors, whatever. I also like the idea of making Fat Cyclist gear available for a longer period, if not year-round! As a survivor, I REALLY wanted a fight like Susan jersey….the fight is just as important as the win.
Definitely write a book. I would buy copies for me and all my cycling friends!
Comment by Ian | 09.20.2010 | 8:37 pm
Whilst it’s very noble of you to be so open about your decisions, it’s your decision. It’s not a democracy, it a blog. We don’t have the correct perspective. It doesn’t directly affect us. (It does however, have a secondary effect on us). So, ultimately, we’d like you to choose what you’re most happy about.
I’m not helping huh?
Other thoughts are.. whilst everyone says “Yay, I’ll buy the book”, I don’t expect all pledges will return with money. I don’t know what the percentage will be. The other thing with a book, is that it will have a high initial spike and large return, and then taper away. Will it cover printing/publishing costs?
With advertising, it probably has a lower return, but it will be sustained. Of course you have to be happy with the advertising taking space and perspective on your site. Getting the formula right is not an exact science, nor is it irreversible.
With that, it’s clear we all wish you well, and you deserve something for your continued efforts. It’s a great blog. Make a choice for you, not for us, because if it works for you, simply put, it will work.
Thanks and best wishes.
Ian
Comment by shoo | 09.20.2010 | 8:37 pm
Sponsorships. Seriously, would have never heard of Twin 6 if it hadn’t been your blog. Pick products you love and use.
Comment by Carl | 09.20.2010 | 8:45 pm
Most of us probably don’t stop to realize how busy you are at work and at being newly married. I imagine some days this blog may be more like work than it once was when it was probably more of an escape.
Fatty, I think that you should do whatever it takes to make as much money as you can, while at the same time making life easier on you.
Comment by Tom | 09.20.2010 | 9:33 pm
It seems as though everyone is telling you to get a dedicated site sponsor and I agree. There is also a lot of noise for a book to which I think you should consider also. Just remember to make sure you feel good about what you are doing and remain true to your own morals and values then the answer usually presents itself!
Best of luck and any way you decide to go I will remain an avid reader!
Comment by Born 4Lycra | 09.20.2010 | 9:36 pm
Fatty just trying to be a bit of a devil’s advocate here. Hope I am not repeating anyone else as usual you have received a lot of responses.
Going back a long way you started out just writing about being a fat bloke on a bike. You did it for fun and boy have you done it well. Now your efforts stand for a whole lot more and have united a whole lot of people and with it comes a lot more pressure and demands on you and I really thank you for shouldering this. While you have had advertising for a while I am a little concerned that you may be opening yourself up for criticism of receiving money while raising funds for charity from some of the lesser informed quarters. Has this happened already?
If you go to having sponsors would you be obligated to write a set number of times a week – would the blog become a job? If the sponsor was Shimano would it be seen as a conflict of interest should you right something favourable about Campag or SRam or possibly more importantly should you criticise them.
I’m only asking because I believe you don’t need anymore hassles and that being said I personally believe you do deserve compensation and will still visit and support this site whatever you choose. My preference would be sponsors and the book as long as it works well for you.
Cheers
Comment by hannah | 09.20.2010 | 9:41 pm
I use Firefox with adblock, so until I saw a couple of comments once about the ads, I was blissfully unaware that they were there at all. I don’t ever see any of them. So what you do with the site in that direction doesn’t affect me directly, really. But I still vote for number 3, a “best of” book. I would totally buy it. In fact, I use your site all the time with my students (I teach writing at a community college) as an example of what good writing can accomplish.
Comment by Born 4Lycra | 09.20.2010 | 9:44 pm
P.S. great pics and I just read Tom’s reply above mine and he has said it very well and much more succinctly than me.
Comment by ChefJT | 09.20.2010 | 10:23 pm
Go with #1 until you can find companies willing to take you to the level where you can do #2. Absolutely do #3! I for one, have no issue with you making enough money to buy some new brake cables on the blog. I wouldn’t stop reading because of ads.
Comment by Dan O | 09.20.2010 | 10:27 pm
I never look at the ads – just ignore ‘em as much as possible.
Nothing wrong with trying earn a little dough with a blog as successful as yours. Maybe a few big bike related sponsors?
Comment by Curtis | 09.20.2010 | 10:29 pm
I would totally buy a book if you would write one for real. My vote is 2 and 3.
Comment by Jeremy | 09.20.2010 | 11:13 pm
You still deserve/earn every smidgen you get off this site. Do what you have to do. Fatty-thon, perhaps?
Comment by Mart | 09.21.2010 | 12:27 am
As a beloved multi-award-winning superstar blogger you should get some compensation for the maount of time and work you put into that blog.
If you’re feeling uncomfortabel about some ads now, look for a handful of trustworthy site-sponsors…
… and WRITE THAT BOOK!
Comment by Niall@Brisvegas | 09.21.2010 | 3:27 am
#2 & #3 for me. I used to read the ads to see what was there. I reckon you should go with ads from Camelbak (you REALLY lurrrve their bottles), T6 (of course), Road ID, Livestrong and any other stuff YOU feel strongly enough could do with space on your site.
Comment by Herb | 09.21.2010 | 4:55 am
Why not become a non-profit charity? You already do loads for raising money to fight cancer.
I agree that you should be paid for your work/time, but trying to vet the sponsors could take more time than you like. Maybe go with some exclusive sponors as you suggested. I don’t think trying to sell a book is a good idea considering people can just look up the old stuff for free.
Comment by Neil | 09.21.2010 | 5:04 am
Option 2 and 3
Comment by Durvish | 09.21.2010 | 5:08 am
Site sponsors and The Fatty Book!
Comment by Cardiac Kid | 09.21.2010 | 5:44 am
Do what ever you think is right Fatty.
And if BikeSnob NYC can write a book anyone can.
Comment by Dan | 09.21.2010 | 5:53 am
Ugh, I’ve been there, Fatty. There was a vulnerability in my Wordpress installation and, well, I had to fix it :-/.
I’d maybe stick with a legit Ad company. The only ad company I know of is Google, ha. I also hate all forms of advertising, so I’m cool if you go sans Ads (though I’m reading via RSS, and there are no ads there..yet :P)
Enjoy the fall weather – it’s getting nice and colorful here in VT :)
Comment by Andrew | 09.21.2010 | 6:28 am
Fatty,
Advertising real-estate on your site must be a premium these days – go have a look at http://www.problogger.net/ Darren Rowse is a fellow Australian who may have some ideas and advice that could help you out.
I think the sponsored adds and a book release at a later date would work well.
BTW – Great response to the problem, I was one of the 150 odd people who let you know, I’d hate to see you suffer because of this.
How about an update on our pre-ordered Jersey’s? how many pre-orders did you get? Might be a good example of your advertising real-estate value.
Cheers
Andrew
Comment by Joshua | 09.21.2010 | 6:49 am
Keep the ads. Asking you to get rid of them is just like asking a television station not to show commercials because they distract from the show.
It is the responsibility of the individual user to keep his computer up to date with virus protection software for general internet use.
If someone says they do not need a flu shot and then they get the flu, the blame falls on the person for not getting the shot… not the person who accidentally passed on the virus.
Keep up the good work !
Comment by Bruuks | 09.21.2010 | 7:26 am
I’m one of those folks who uses Adblock for a nice clean web browsing experience. For someone like me, the first option won’t generate any revenue for you. Sorry. I’d suggest options 2 and 3.
Another option is to combine option 2 with your regular blogging and include product placement in your posts, where someone like me will actually see it.
Comment by Bruuks | 09.21.2010 | 7:32 am
One other thing – Continue building the Team Fatty brand, and you’ll probably make more money from selling merchandise than you will from ads on this blog.
Oh, and isn’t a few free bikes, a chance to ride with Lance and team Radioshack, a seat in the team car for a TT stage and the love and admiration of all your loyal readers not payment enough for your blogging efforts?
Comment by Tina Z | 09.21.2010 | 7:50 am
Get a book deal. I would buy it as a gift for several people I know. Chapters could be divided into themes from your blog like “Leadville 100″, “Fight Like Susan”, and “Iron Fatty”. The closing chapter could feature your new family, maybe titled “It’s a Family Affair”. Yes, write a book!
Comment by MattyC | 09.21.2010 | 9:03 am
Go for the book deal – I think it would fly, I’d certainly buy it. I also think you should get something from the effort and time on the site – I like the idea of you making something from the merchandise – everyone wants a Fatty T’shirt !
Comment by roan | 09.21.2010 | 10:14 am
Fatty, I too read all your blogs comments. There are some good ideas like Tina Z just above.
You have experience speaking before large groups of people, you can be funny…and very serious. You can tell a good joke and take one too. In Portland, OR there is a cyclist…Joe Kurmaskie, the Metal Cowboy I’m sure you have heard of him.. I’ve all his books, heard several of his presentations, talked with him at bike shows. He has cycled foreign lands, hauled his family across the US & Canada on bike(s). You have hauled a lot more across this country and around the world.
Does it payoff ? I don’t know in terms of $$$ or even $ but in terms of endearment…PRICELESS.
Comment by Cyclin' Missy | 09.21.2010 | 11:16 am
I don’t like the ads that you removed (the ones on the right today are great, though!). They clutter up the page and make it load slower. And I’d be really super bummed to get malware from your site because I refuse to stop coming to it. You’re probably my very favorite blogger!
That being said, I also think you should get something for all the time you spend on the blog, because it’s great.
I’d go with sponsors or the book, which I’d totally buy.
Thanks for putting together a fantastic blog! Good luck deciding what to do!
Comment by Demonic1 | 09.21.2010 | 11:22 am
Instead of ads how about quicklinks to livestrong foundation.
then do exclusive ads for companies that have partnered with you for prizes. twin six, shimano, orbea, honey stinger, etc.
you have to keep the DZnuts adds- they make me laugh almost as much as your posts.
Comment by Barb | 09.21.2010 | 11:36 am
Fatty gear all year and sponsorships. I have bought Twin Six gear and Podium bottles because you have mentioned them.
Comment by JAT in Seattle | 09.21.2010 | 11:54 am
I don’t have a problem with the ads (though they do make things a little slower) and I’ll even make then habit of clicking through in the perhaps naive belief that generates better revenue for you.
I have puzzled at what unseen factors of content on your blog and cookies on my machine lead to being served the ads I see (Motorcycles? Really?…)
But I really tend to look right past them, I figure most people do – I guess the whole internet is predicated on the fact that I’m probably wrong…
Comment by Janneke | 09.21.2010 | 1:14 pm
with a chance to be boring, 2&3 are my choices.
Comment by Jenni | 09.21.2010 | 3:34 pm
@Born4Lycra
I agree. However will you write another open letter honestly if one of those products, etc. happens to be one of your bosses, er, sponsors.
I would donate if you had a button…
Comment by Kentucky Joe | 09.21.2010 | 6:17 pm
Site sponsor or two and a book sound like great ideas.
Comment by L'Hippo | 09.21.2010 | 8:20 pm
You had ads? Shows how little attention I paid to them.
Comment by Stu | 09.21.2010 | 9:43 pm
Ideally – free + no sponsors = full freedom but realistically you should cover your costs. If you get a sponsor, how honest do you think you could be about comments about their products? You could view the free “gear” as a form of payment. Seriously what’s the value of the free stuff have you written about in the past 12 months?
Thanks for your writing
Stu
Comment by Johan | 09.22.2010 | 3:24 am
Elden I find the adverts are a distraction. I read your blog for what you have to say and not for the adverts that are on your site.
Having said that you certainly must continue to generate revenue from your work. So I would pass on writing your blog for free.
I would think that companies eg Specialised would be queueing up to sponsor your site. I can see the risk of feeling beholden to a sponsor though. I would imagine it will be a fine line to walk.
I would pay for any book you wrote.
Lastly if you decide to continue with adverts that will be okay too. I’ll just block out the spinning lady.
Thank you for providing so much entertainment and for working so hard to grow support for your chosen causes.
Johan
Comment by dave | 09.22.2010 | 6:00 am
If you are familiar with the NPR radio show, This American Life, they periodically ask for donations, whatever the listener feels the show is worth. You could do this through PayPal. I would be willing to shell out some coin to read your blog, say 50 dollars or about a dollar a week. Not everyone would or could afford to do it but hopefully a lot of people would recognize the entertainment value provided by your wit.
Comment by Rebecca | 09.22.2010 | 11:02 am
Why don’t you try affiliate sales through somewhere like shareasale or commission junction. You get to pick the stores, heck even the products from time to time. And, you can choose the types of ads, previewing everything before you put it on the site. The way I look at it, IF I wanted to buy a product I would look first to someone who used that product or at least had half an idea what it was. You might be able to promote and make a few coins on the products you like – like the shoes in today’s post for example. Either way – good luck! Love the blog!
Comment by Josh | 09.22.2010 | 11:35 am
Zen-Habits used to have one ad per month on the website. The ad would be there for a month at a time and it was screened by Leo the author. His rules were that it had to be of genuine interest to the blog readers and had to be of a certain size and link to a certain spot which would not change for the entire calendar month. I think he changed a thousand bucks or something like that which basically covered the cost of running the website. That was it. He always had an ad there and because it changed once a month but I’d visit 4 or 5 times per month I’d notice when the ad changed and I’d usually visit the ad’s site. This generated a real potential customer for each business advertising on the site… and you make a high-value advertisement opportunity and you’re actually providing a service to us, your readers by doing so.
So long as you set up the rules for getting the ad on your site to be appropriate and set the price point appropriately I think you’ll have no problem finding people who think it’s worthwhile to fork over a significant chunk of change for a unique advertising opportunity. To be honest I never once clicked on an ad on the site the way it used to be… and I never visit the ads on sites like PEZ and XTRI.com where I go for cycling/triathlon news because there are so many and I think they’re normally irrelevant. If they are relevant and I can identify when something is new it’s a lot more likely for me to visit and maybe buy something.
Leo has since gone to zero-ads on the blog and self-funds the site. He also has written a book which might have something to do with it although I don’t get the impression he’s made himself rich from doing so.
Sorry Fatty, I probably wouldn’t buy your book.
Comment by Tim | 09.23.2010 | 9:44 am
Start looking for a company or two to act as the site sponsors, giving them exclusive rights to advertising?
You have a big enough following now that one or two site sponsors should be reasonable. they will give you additional/improved connections for future fund-raising efforts too.
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