Faq
Q: My screen is black?
A: You need to instal the latest video decoder here. http://www.afterdawn.com/software/video_software/codecs_and_filters/ffdshow.cfm
Q: What is real life video?
A: This is rider perspective video of well known (& not so well known roads).This is linked to the Catalyst software so the video is played at the speed you ride, every grade change you see....You feel!!
Q: Can I make my own?
A: Not easily! But we are always on the look out for new routes, so if you have a video that you think could be used in the growing library of RLV routes feel free to contact me or Tacx. We are especially interested in anyone that maybe able to film MTB routes.
Q: Can I use the steering Frame?
A: The steering Frame will do nothing when riding a RLV but you will want it for the new super cool virtual world!
Q: Is there sound effects with the video?
A: Other then the starting & end signal there is no sound at present with the video. We decided to go for a wide selection of rides rather then spend time adding sound. If the rides become popular enough, then sound (cars,trucks, birds perhaps wind & other effects) can be added at a later date as a upgrade.
You can if you have a fairly new PC (not one thats on the limit with Catalyst) use your mp3 collection via media player!
Q: Whats the quality of the video like?
A: The selection of rides in the first batch (10 DVDs) has video that was filmed from a whole range of cameras & mounting apparatus. Some of the video is poorer in quality then others. All of the video was filmed using DV Camcorders at TV resolution (about a third the size of your average PC monitor).
For 2005 we are using a prototype high definition camera as well as a selection of DV cameras so look out for some rather different looking rides which is much closer to the look of the real thing. The new camera has its limitations but is also capable of getting some extreamly cool images. This is the route we will take & over time this video will become better & better.
Q: These rides are long
do I have to ride the whole thing in one go?
A: Not if do not want to! there is a route creation tool included in FortiusCatalyst where you can scroll through the video & select a place to start & finish your ride. You can give the route a name . There are included with each DVD video a ready made selection of routes to use.
Q: There is no text in the video to say where I am?
A: We decided to leave text out of the video as we have the capability to add pop up text boxes that could be made an optional upgrade to the rides at a later date. How this will be done & what text will be included (town, climb names or more in depth text)has still to be discussed. (Tip) Some of the new rides filmed in 2005 are so clear that you can simply slow down & read the road signs for directions as to where you are!
Q: How about views? all I can see is a wall of road when climbing up the steep sections of the Galibier!
A: We have attempted to capture the essence of the climbs & capture the view as seen by a rider. The nice view will be the reward you get on the descent as its here that you can see all the panoramas & views! We have the capability to add jpegs & short video sequences to the rides in the form of pop up boxes but this is something for the future. Some of the rides (like those from Italy & SA) have a fixed view of the road so the view remains the same but the grades are less steep looking (of course the Paso Gavia will always look steep!). Some of the rides filmed in 2005 will have some views
included with the video.
Q: How do I get the full screen video or change the distance I can see ahead in the profile?
A: Use the 'UP' arrow on your handlebar control pad to change the video size (Full screen, Full screen with data, small screen with detailed data & profile or just Data & Profile)
Use the 'DOWN' arrow to change the distance you can see on the profile (if you can see the profile) You have 3 options from having the whole route visible to having the next few 100m.
Q: How do I change a setting while riding?
A: Press enter while riding through a RLV & you will see a options screen with the video still slightly visible in the background. Use then the arrow keys to navigate enter to make a selection.
Q: I see nothing on the CD & no install box opens, I think my CD is blank!!
A: The CD is in fact a DVD! please use Real life videos in DVD players only!
Q: I want to install my rides to a different hard drive (a external for example). How do I do this?
A: The simplest way to use the large video files on a other drive is to copy the video folder on the DVD to your desired drive. Next open the video folder (on your hard drive) & click the videoinstall.exe . Just choose the Run from DVD option! The Videoinstall.exe will think your hard drive is the DVD & write this address on the file that will be installed into the Catalyst folder.
Install any further rides into the 'same' video folder & they will be listed when you click the videoInstall
I keep all my rides on a External hard drive & I use this system