So yeah. I have an 8 hour race. It’s one of those “get as many laps as you can” style events. 8 miles and 800 feet of total elevation per lap at about 7700 feet. I swapped out the rigid fork for my manitou mastodon suspension fork that originally came on the bike to take the edge off. I’m not trying to win anything, just survive. Hills are still tough and I end up hiking a fair bit of them when I go out for a ride. Any pointers for a not so svelte single speed newbie?
by bikesbeardsbeers94
1 Comment
I’m no expert but this is what I would do and what has helped me in the past. Do some punchy and short rides. Find a bit of trail where you pedal and go fast for like 20 minutes. Something to activate your strength and lungs. Also do some longer rides at elevation, just working on controlling your breathing. Think about how your hips are moving. Hip flexors are really important. Focus on pedal engagement and a comfortable upper body. Focus on your grip on the handlebars. Don’t strangle them. Prepare with lots of water, some backwards walking, pushups, pull-ups. Try not to burn yourself out before the race. Do most of your work this week, and give yourself some time to recover. Take baths and read a book. You’re going to do great! Have fun and think of your bike as just one of your many tools to get you through the course! 🙂