View Full Version : The Cycling Thread
And no wonder there was such a massive difference between saddle and bar height. As well as bending your back, you will also have had all the weight through your wrists/forearms - therefore all the shocks coming through the forks will have felt a lot worse than if the bars were at the correct height.
You can get different shaped bars (e.g. riser bars) and stems (various lengths and angles, including adjustable). There is no reason why you should not be able to get comfortable with a bit of fettling, assuming the frame is the right size in the first place!
allantheboss
27-06-11, 06:56 PM
Well, when I picked up the ordered bike, it was pretty much pick-up and leave. He only raised the seat for me. At first glance today though the guy was like "That's not a 24" frame". I had really good service, just a bit of an unfortunate event. Could be worse. Back on the bike hunt again for me!
Luckypants
28-06-11, 08:01 AM
Buying from a bike shop (be it Halfords or anywhere else) should mean that the staff serving you take a few minutes to get the bike sorted more or less correctly for you. That means at least setting seat height, saddle position and crucially bar height. The bar height means they may have to flip or even swap your stem so you get a comfortable riding position.
I think you may be better served to go to a local reputable bike shop, tell them about your tale of woe and discuss getting something suitable from them. Most bike shops stock cheaper bikes for beginners and occasional cyclists, so don't be put off by the £4K bike in the window! ;)
maviczap
28-06-11, 08:07 AM
so don't be put off by the £4K bike in the window, just drool over it! ;)
Updated ;)
You've been using the 2 biggest muscles in your body.....
Polite way of saying that he has a big ar$e? ;)
allantheboss
28-06-11, 10:28 AM
I have 2 very nice glutei maximi thank you very much
maviczap
28-06-11, 10:30 AM
Polite way of saying that he has a big ar$e? ;)
Its one way of putting it, politely of course :p
I have 2 very nice glutei maximi thank you very much
Says who ;)
Pah! Got my first puncture (ever!) last night, luckily only about half a mile from my dads so seeign as he has all the gear took it round there and and he did the biz for me. On my way I went thinking nothing of it...
I only got another sodding one this morning, only this time nowhere near Daddy's house, so I had to deal with it myself and it was the back wheel this time, actually not that back to do really.
Just not sure which inner-tubes to buy of wiggle this morning as my front and rear wheels have different tyre sizes on them: front is 25c and rear is 26c - So what size should I get?
He used his CO2 inflator I bought him last night, that thing is the dogs danglies, so I am going to order one of those too and a saddle bag.
Any recommendations?
Would these work: Presta 42mm700x18-25 Race 28
Luckypants
29-06-11, 08:17 AM
They would be stretched a bit if you had to put it in your 26C tyre. How about these from Wiggle http://www.wiggle.co.uk/cst-road-inner-tube/ they do a Presta 40mm Valve700x18-28c that will cover both your sizes, and only £2.50 a tube.
Went to LBS to get one in the end and almost bit the bullet on buying a carbon fibre bike...
THIS BIKE (http://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/product/wilierizoardxpxenonracingbike2011.aspx?&id=15348) was on offer for £1199, he said the same frame last year was almost double. Opinions?
He also rubbished the ribble and planet-x frames which I was really suprised about...mind you he doesn't sell them.
THIS BIKE (http://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/product/wilierizoardxpxenonracingbike2011.aspx?&id=15348) was on offer for £1199, he said the same frame last year was almost double. Opinions?
The F&F are likely to be very good, but the groupset is Campag Xenon, which I think was phased out 2 or 3 years ago. It's not a full groupset either - Xenon shifters but miche cassette and chain. No mention of the chainset, either.
It's possibly old stock that they are looking to sell off cheapish. Something of a bargain if you don't mind not being current of the mech front.
maviczap
29-06-11, 05:57 PM
Went to LBS to get one in the end and almost bit the bullet on buying a carbon fibre bike...
THIS BIKE (http://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/product/wilierizoardxpxenonracingbike2011.aspx?&id=15348) was on offer for £1199, he said the same frame last year was almost double. Opinions?
He also rubbished the ribble and planet-x frames which I was really suprised about...mind you he doesn't sell them.
Thats my frame! Its a great frame, stiff yet comfortable. Better than the Alu Litespeed i'ver got. Its the first full carbon bike I've ever had and I'd buy another no problem.
The F&F are likely to be very good, but the groupset is Campag Xenon, which I think was phased out 2 or 3 years ago. It's not a full groupset either - Xenon shifters but miche cassette and chain. No mention of the chainset, either.
It's possibly old stock that they are looking to sell off cheapish. Something of a bargain if you don't mind not being current of the mech front.
This is the one big drawback with this bike, is the Xenon stuff, Jabba's right it disapeappeared a while ago. From what I remember the shift levers were plastic and not very good for Campag.
I bought my frame without any components, I fitted it out with Shimano Ultegra SL, which at the time was on special offer at Merlin cycles, and I bought Ultegra wheels to finish it off. It came with a Ritchy carbon seat post.
So its a good frame fitted out with low spec components, which is why its so cheap I think. Originally the Izoard frames came with Chorus or Centaur groupsets, as it was one or two below the top Wlier models.
If it was fitted with a full Mirage or Shimano 105 groupset, then it' be alright
Back to the drawing board then?
maviczap
29-06-11, 08:47 PM
Pity you couldn't just buy the frame
I was concerned about the parts looking cheaper especially the levers!
The levers had a strange thumb shifter which I think would get pressed a lot by me accidentally!
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/bh-bikes-speedrom-2011/ ???
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/moser-bikes-111-105-2011/ ???
I'm going out bike shopping tomorrow...
I'm going out bike shopping tomorrow...
Scott CR1 :thumbsup:
Tim in Belgium
01-07-11, 10:19 PM
A quick 25 miles for me this evening around the Chilterns as dodgy ankle means I can't run :(
Today I rebuild my bike. Need to clean, lube, fit new chain (not done this before :rolleyes:), adjust rear mexh to cope with larger sprocket, new tyres/tubes, etc.
Wish me luck!
metalmonkey
02-07-11, 10:43 AM
A quick 25 miles for me this evening around the Chilterns as dodgy ankle means I can't run :(
Where abouts did you go in the Chilterns?
......adjust rear mech to cope with larger sprocket.......Wish me luck!
Hmmm...... adjustment not necessary. Worked first time. Amazing :cool:
Luck not necessary. Followed instructions ;)
Bullet Cam is here and tested - nearly got pulled out on twice in under 1 mile. A few adjustments on my helmet and ready for the commute tomorrow!
Right after a day unsuccessfully shopping for a bike that I can genuinely afford, most bikes I liked were £1500 plus, my favourite of which was an Orbea for £1630, I have decided I am going to go for this:
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/focus-cayo-105-ltd-2011/ in a medium...I have a 29" inside leg.
...but before I click the checkout button, am I doing the right thing? It seems like a lot of bike for £999.
Thank you.
maviczap
03-07-11, 07:05 PM
Looks alright :)
Right after a day unsuccessfully shopping for a bike that I can genuinely afford, most bikes I liked were £1500 plus, my favourite of which was an Orbea for £1630, I have decided I am going to go for this:
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/focus-cayo-105-ltd-2011/ in a medium...I have a 29" inside leg.
...but before I click the checkout button, am I doing the right thing? It seems like a lot of bike for £999.
Thank you.
Looks great, I dont think you can do better for a grand. I've got a Focus Mares for cyclocross and its great. Also know others who are very happy with them.
If you are new to wiggle and want some free sunglasses drop me your email address and I'll refer you!
Looking for a wiggle discount voucher now!!! Then I can afford some black 105 pedals with it!
Looking for a wiggle discount voucher now!!! Then I can afford some black 105 pedals with it!
If you can run to these then get them:
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=47601
The model number tells you they are Ultegra but without the name on. Absolutely brilliant. Mind you, they were £45 when I got them about 6 months ago - so cheaper than 105.
Finally ordered a bike...took me long enough!
Hurry up wiggle...I am so excited I could crush a grape!
Just went on to check the status of my order, not yet processed and noticed upto 20% off bikes offer. So I cancelled my existing order re-did it and got £120 off the bike, so it is now £879!!! Just have to be excited a few more days!
Just went on to check the status of my order, not yet processed and noticed upto 20% off bikes offer. So I cancelled my existing order re-did it and got £120 off the bike, so it is now £879!!! Just have to be excited a few more days!
Cooler then a penguin's pecker :cool:
Spend the £120 on some gear/pedals/tools :thumbsup:
sorebutt
07-07-11, 08:10 PM
After having been a heavy smoker for some 38 years, I started cycling in 2007 having stopped the weed at the same time, 68 miles in 5hrs 17 min BUT that was the IOW randonnee this year so it was almost continuous up & down hills. I used my Trek 2.3t Madone I reckon at 58 and weighing in at 82Kgs that's not too bad. Suffer from asthma and crap knees and a host of other things but every day I wake up is a gooood day!
Added some black 105 pedals to the order and a basic tool kit.
Tomorrow will make day 5 of a full weeks commuting on bike...my legs are fubared!!! First 5 day cycling week, with no plan to get a motorbike or car at present.
After having been a heavy smoker for some 38 years, I started cycling in 2007 having stopped the weed at the same time, 68 miles in 5hrs 17 min BUT that was the IOW randonnee this year so it was almost continuous up & down hills. I used my Trek 2.3t Madone I reckon at 58 and weighing in at 82Kgs that's not too bad. Suffer from asthma and crap knees and a host of other things but every day I wake up is a gooood day!
68 miles...that sounds like a very long way, I have done 88 in 4 days and am f.......
Oh sexy bike too!
After having been a heavy smoker for some 38 years, I started cycling in 2007 having stopped the weed at the same time, 68 miles in 5hrs 17 min BUT that was the IOW randonnee this year so it was almost continuous up & down hills. I used my Trek 2.3t Madone I reckon at 58 and weighing in at 82Kgs that's not too bad. Suffer from asthma and crap knees and a host of other things but every day I wake up is a gooood day!
Where's the "Like" button :-)
Bad day for Team Sky. Poor Bradley Wiggins :-(
However, I wouldn't be surprised to see some stirring stuff from Geraint Thomas and Edvald Boasson Hagen in the remainder of the Tour, being free from the need to ride for their Team Leader is great opportunity for their talent to shine though. Watch Boasson Hagen in the next few years :thumbsup:
Just watching ITV4 now - 60 kmh with 4k to go - bloody hell
Gutted for Bradders, but awesome sprint from Cav - another stage win :smt023
MisterTommyH
08-07-11, 07:04 PM
Gutted for Bradders, but awesome sprint from Cav - another stage win :smt023
Bad bad day for Sky. Shame. We could have had 3 British jerseys this year.
maviczap
08-07-11, 07:24 PM
Bad day for Team Sky. Poor Bradley Wiggins :-(
However, I wouldn't be surprised to see some stirring stuff from Geraint Thomas and Edvald Boasson Hagen in the remainder of the Tour, being free from the need to ride for their Team Leader is great opportunity for their talent to shine though. Watch Boasson Hagen in the next few years :thumbsup:
Gutted for Bradders, but awesome sprint from Cav - another stage win :smt023
Yep, and next year he's going to be committed to the Olympics isn't he? :-(
Why not Contador or Schleck, why Brad ](*,)](*,)
Bollox, shizzle, feck :smt076
sorebutt
09-07-11, 03:41 PM
Nice one this morning, as we cycled off (20 or so of us ) Some carlos fandango cut up the rear group but could not overtake the next two riders, - I overtook chummie on the Trek, and he pulled down his window and gave all sorts of abuse to me, while he was looking at me, the car in front stopped to pull into a drive and carlos smacked him in the rear at about 22mph. A rather nice cheer went up - the lady who was rear ended was OK - while matey was blaming us! Ah, don't you just love it when something like that happens!
By the way, took the SV out for it's first ride - nice! GOt overtaken by a few of them 2 wheeled strimmers but I'm gonna run her in to spec really pleased.
Vinokorov - career ended.
Flecha and Millar hurt.
Hoogerland lucky to be alive.
Bad day at the TdF :-(
MisterTommyH
10-07-11, 07:30 PM
Vinokorov - career ended.
Flecha and Millar hurt.
Hoogerland lucky to be alive.
Bad day at the TdF :-(
+1
The car driver should be prosecuted.
maviczap
10-07-11, 07:40 PM
Vinokorov - career ended.
Flecha and Millar hurt.
Hoogerland lucky to be alive.
Bad day at the TdF :-(
Yep a nasty day
fizzwheel
10-07-11, 07:42 PM
Vinokorov - career ended.
He was all set to retire at the end of the year anyway... I wander though based on his performance yesterday if he was going to go out on a high.
Agreed on the car driver, disgusting move. But awesome effort for Vockler ( sp ) today...
As an asside, got back home today after two weeks away to find a letter from the police asking me to fill out a witness statement regarding Mr Magoo who knocked me off in march seems that they are all set to prosecute him...
maviczap
10-07-11, 07:54 PM
Anyone entered Halfrauds fantasy TDF online game?
Luckypants
11-07-11, 08:41 AM
Missed that one, some of the lads did but I never got round to it. I have entered one which has a mini-league for our little cycling group and was doing really well, but unfortunately the weekend's crashes have put paid to my front runners.
It's been a terrible weekend for the TdF with several big names out due to crashes. Vinokourov is lucky to be alive, a fractured femur can lead to enormous blood loss. Likewise Flecha and Hoogerland after being taken out by that car! (Also Sorenssen on stage 5 taken out by a motorcycle). I feel for Wiggins, as he was riding well and had his confidence up after the Dauphine, but staying out of trouble is part of winning a Grand Tour.
Contador is riding his luck at the moment, he's been in 3 or 4 crashes and has come away more or less unscathed. However unless he can stay clear of trouble for the rest of the tour, he will also be crashing out and A. Schleck will win by default as all the major rivals crash out...
Pedrosa
11-07-11, 09:56 AM
Carnage during yesterday's stage. Was that lewis Hamilton driving the black tv car? Unbelieveably stupid manouvre.
Contador has for me has absolutelyu no chance now this year.Shame.
Contador is riding his luck at the moment, he's been in 3 or 4 crashes and has come away more or less unscathed. However unless he can stay clear of trouble for the rest of the tour, he will also be crashing out
He doesn't look to be in great form. He was interviewed yesterday and was making his excuses, saying that he's fallen on the same knee twice already. Came off yesterday after getting his bars stuck under another rider's saddle.
Cadel Evans looks the most likely winner from the big names.
IT'S HERE!!!
All I need to do is put the handle-bars and pedals on!!! Then I can ride it home.
I am very excited.
Anything else I need to do? Looks like it is setup for the right height for me.
Luckypants
12-07-11, 02:21 PM
Be careful of the torque settings on the stem when fitting the handlebars, follow the instructions. 3-4Nm of torque is all these modern alloy stems need it seems. Over tightening can be expensive...
Feels too big to me? Perhaps that is because my current bike is too small as it wasn't mine originally.
My heel goes on the pedal with my leg at almost full extension and I don't lock-out my knees when I am clipped in and pedalling, but I feel a bit awkward.
maviczap
12-07-11, 07:36 PM
Feels too big to me? Perhaps that is because my current bike is too small as it wasn't mine originally.
My heel goes on the pedal with my leg at almost full extension and I don't lock-out my knees when I am clipped in and pedalling, but I feel a bit awkward.
Sounds like you need it fitting out for your size. Very few off the peg bikes are going to fit anyone first time out of the box.
I don't lock my knees out, and if you watch the TDF most riders don't, don't think its healthy for your knees long term
454697819
12-07-11, 09:27 PM
can anyone recommend me some SPD shoes and pedals, I have size 14 feet or size 49, its just my sharp pedals have cut right through my nice out door shoes.. they must have had soft soles..
Gutted
Ta all
maviczap
13-07-11, 07:18 AM
can anyone recommend me some SPD shoes and pedals, I have size 14 feet or size 49, its just my sharp pedals have cut right through my nice out door shoes.. they must have had soft soles..GuttedTa all
Blimey big plates of meat :wink: You are going to struggle finding many with you sized feet. However I found these fairly normal looking MTB ones, which you can walk around in and aren't stifff soled road shoes
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200620152726
Here's a thread about your sized feet
http://www.bikeforums.net/archive/index.php/t-337290.html
Be careful if you buy Italian shoes on the net as they tend to come up small in the sizes they say they are. I normally take a 44, but Italian cycling shoes I tend to take a 45 or even a 45.5!
If not go to Elmly's in Ipswich and see what they can get, but be prepared to flinch at the prices!
Those Shimano ones are a good price
My new shiny garmin 500 (I think) turned up today complete with HR monitor (I have 3 now) and cadence sensor, fitted the garmin mount not sure about the cadence sensor just yet...are they easy for a complete muppet to fit?
Couldn't bare the thought of putting the mount for my garmin running watch on the new bike.
Have dropped the saddle a touch just now and will see how it goes tomorrow...
My new shiny garmin 500 (I think) turned up today complete with HR monitor (I have 3 now) and cadence sensor, fitted the garmin mount not sure about the cadence sensor just yet...are they easy for a complete muppet to fit?
Garmin 500 Edge? Yep, both parts/mounts really easy to fit. The mount for the main unit (best place is the stem) is really easy - just use the rubber rings.
The cadence sensor fits on the (non-drive side) chainstay and is secured with the cable ties. Fit the cadence magnet onto the crank-arm first (tightly) then place the rubber-mount/cadence sensor to suit this. Fit the unit loosely at first then tighten-up when you're happy with the position/gap. The distance between the magnet and the unit is important, but there's a fair margin of error in reality.
Fit the speed-sensor magnet on to a spoke last. The arm on the cadence sensor can be moved to get close to the spoke magnet.
Garmin 500 Edge? Yep, both parts/mounts really easy to fit. The mount for the main unit (best place is the stem) is really easy - just use the rubber rings. HAVE DONE THIS BIT.
The cadence sensor fits on the (non-drive side) chainstay ERM? and is secured with the cable ties. Fit the cadence magnet onto the crank-arm ERM? first (tightly) then place the rubber-mount/cadence sensor to suit this. Fit the unit loosely at first then tighten-up when you're happy with the position/gap. The distance between the magnet and the unit is important, but there's a fair margin of error in reality.
Fit the speed-sensor magnet on to a spoke last. The arm on the cadence sensor can be moved to get close to the spoke magnet.
See told you I was a muppet!
fizzwheel
13-07-11, 07:42 PM
See told you I was a muppet!
Install it in the same position as this and you wont go far wrong, you might have to fiddle about with it to get the magnets to pick up so dont do the zip ties up to tight till you have it in the right place. ( This is the sensor for my edge 305, not sure if its the same as the one you have )
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e344/fizzwheel/DSC_0238.jpg
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e344/fizzwheel/DSC_0237.jpg
HTH
Fizz - thanks for this.
I actually managed to do it (dead simple really) just always worry about sodding things up when I have forked out good money for them...
Just need to test it now. It appears to flash red each time the pedal passes it, does that sound right?
Have let the seat down a bit much I think.
How should it feel when the seat is the right height? When it was too high I was pulling my legs up the up and having to move from side to side...
I know it isn't quite up there with the bikes in this forum, but:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/ATT23947.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/ATT58080-1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/ATT28627.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/ATT61803.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/ATT71532.jpg
Luckypants
15-07-11, 09:33 AM
That is a great looking bike man! no need to be humble about your bike, it's the man in the saddle that makes it go that matters.
How should it feel when the seat is the right height? When it was too high I was pulling my legs up the up and having to move from side to side...
Have a read of this, I found it very useful http://www.bottombracket.co.uk/saddle-position.html, but then dropped the seat 3mm for a more relaxed ride. Only move the saddle a small amount, like 3-5mm each time until it works for you.
Paul the 6th
15-07-11, 12:37 PM
they're just talking about the safety of cyclists on town roads on bbc2 now - someone mentioned this...
http://www.twotreestack.com/images/_lib/polite-waistcoat-please-slow-down-yellow-5747-0-1297698237000.jpg
http://www.twotreestack.com/polite-waistcoat-please-slow-down-yellow.ir?cName=safety-wear
maviczap
15-07-11, 07:29 PM
they're just talking about the safety of cyclists on town roads on bbc2 now - someone mentioned this...
http://www.twotreestack.com/images/_lib/polite-waistcoat-please-slow-down-yellow-5747-0-1297698237000.jpg
http://www.twotreestack.com/polite-waistcoat-please-slow-down-yellow.ir?cName=safety-wear
They must be reffering to me, I go so fast :smt038
Mine would read, " YES i HAVE PAID MY FECKIN ROAD TAX, 3 TIMES OVER, NOW GET OFF YOUR PHONE WHILST YOU'RE DRIVIN, UNLESS YOU WANT IT HANDS FREE SOMEWHERE, WHERE THE SUN DON'T SHINE" :p
Paul the 6th
16-07-11, 10:19 AM
lol... you wanna be careful Zap, you might wind yourself up if you're not careful :razz:
me and my lowly specialized hardrock sport disc have now done 140 miles in 8 weeks.. Switched to spesh nimbus armadillo road tyres about 30 miles ago - managed to beat my top speed of 33mph with them but not come close to doing it again since. I stupidly tried to tackle a bit of grass banking with a diagonal climb and promptly fell off - will carry it up next time :)
Now upped my daily ride to 12 miles and looking to add another 3 miles in there soon... Really wanna go to dalby again but scared of slowing everyone down... again. Right enjoyed it, even the falling off bit.
Reckon you might tag along sometime zappy?
maviczap
16-07-11, 10:58 AM
lol... you wanna be careful Zap, you might wind yourself up if you're not careful :razz:
Just an in joke,one of our knuckle draggers thinks that all cyclists shouldn't be allowed on the road because they don't pay road tax
Reckon you might tag along sometime zappy
Yep, its in the plan, just got to get round to buying the new MTB. I've got my Halfrauds vouchers now, so I'll hopefully order it before the end of the month
Pedrosa
19-07-11, 03:32 PM
Alberto Contador did a lot of damage to the Schleck brothers today, but surely with a deficit of 3:42 that is just too much for him to claw back on the leader?
Ignoring the final parade day, there remains just two stages to be contested, tomorrow another mountain stage,(nowhere near as tough as today's) and a time trial. Is Cadel Evans this year's winner or can the fantastic Contador snatch it away from him?
fizzwheel
19-07-11, 06:56 PM
YES YES YES thats how to win, Nice job Contador and Evans, thats what I want to see attacking and taking risks, not more wheel sucking from the sucky schleck wheel sucky brothers.
One of the schlecks is stuffed now as he cant time trial for toffee, the other one isnt that brilliant either.
Contador looked good I thought, but Evans looks even stronger. But I woudlnt be writing Bertie off. I can see Voeckler getting on the podium if he keeps fighting like this.
Jackie_Black
19-07-11, 07:37 PM
Evening chaps,
I need a small amount of cycling advice and this is clearly the place to ask. A friend of mine has asked if I would like to do the coast to coast in a day (120 miles) in about 6 weeks time. I normally only do about 30 miles on the racer but think i could easily manage more (never tried for a while though0. I'm off work for 6 weeks from friday, is this potentially long enough to train for a 120 mile ride? and has anyone got any bright ideas about how I should go about it?
Alberto Contador did a lot of damage to the Schleck brothers today, but surely with a deficit of 3:42 that is just too much for him to claw back on the leader?
Ignoring the final parade day, there remains just two stages to be contested, tomorrow another mountain stage,(nowhere near as tough as today's) and a time trial. Is Cadel Evans this year's winner or can the fantastic Contador snatch it away from him?
So there's todays stage, tomorrows stage and Fridays stage all to come before the time trial. 2 high mountain stages Thurs and Fri which includes the Alpe d' Huez before the TT. Plenty of time for a reshuffle I reckon. Contador looked much better yesterday but Evans needs to attack again to rid himself of Voeckler who is riding superbly.
Evening chaps,
I need a small amount of cycling advice and this is clearly the place to ask. A friend of mine has asked if I would like to do the coast to coast in a day (120 miles) in about 6 weeks time. I normally only do about 30 miles on the racer but think i could easily manage more (never tried for a while though0. I'm off work for 6 weeks from friday, is this potentially long enough to train for a 120 mile ride? and has anyone got any bright ideas about how I should go about it?
I thought about doing the same thing myself but an unbelievably busy summer has led to me dodging the training.
I've done about 45 miles maximum in one go so far on the bike, completely bonked at numerous points on the way round as it was quite hilly but was pleased to get it in the bag. The idea was to do 50 but physically I hit a wall due to the terrain.
The C2C has quite a few elevation changes (shortest distance could be about 90 miles) so could be quite challenging. I'd say 6 weeks was a tough schedule. Ive heard that big mileage can take quite a bit of conditioning.
Luckypants
20-07-11, 01:02 PM
Evening chaps,
I need a small amount of cycling advice and this is clearly the place to ask. A friend of mine has asked if I would like to do the coast to coast in a day (120 miles) in about 6 weeks time. I normally only do about 30 miles on the racer but think i could easily manage more (never tried for a while though0. I'm off work for 6 weeks from friday, is this potentially long enough to train for a 120 mile ride? and has anyone got any bright ideas about how I should go about it?Six weeks is the bare minimum to effect physiological change from training, you wont actually gain any muscle or aerobic fitness in 6 weeks. The best you can hope for is to get used to being on the bike for that length of time and condition your **** to it.
If you can comfortably do 45 miles then you should get up to 60 easily. I'd schedule in two 60 mile rides next week to test your legs and if they go well look to do a couple of weeks with a 50 mile and 70 mile ride in each. Assess how its going after that, you will be 3 weeks into a 6 week schedule so a bit of time to get used to the mileage and decide if you can manage the extra. With the C2C being hilly, you will need to factor in the extra effort climbing takes into your training. It will be worth making your rides hilly to give a realistic view of the effort involved.
The other thing you need to think about will be nutrition, as once you go over 40 or 50 miles, energy drinks are not enough and you have to consider more substantial food. Energy bars, cereal bars and gels will all help and cafe stops will be required, but be careful not to overload the sugars and to have a lighter drink in your bottle for the hour after a cafe.
Might be a very hard day out this.
Jackie_Black
20-07-11, 01:25 PM
Might be a very hard day out this.
I think thats probably an understatement. I've got a few new bits and pieces coming to pep the bike up a little bit. Proper SPD's and road shoes, been using my MTB ones and they are too small and some new tyres as my originals are perishing and squared off (didn't know that was possible). I'm also on the look out for a new seat. I'm hoping to get my sit bones measured for a specialised body geometry seat, the avatar looked pretty good for what i'll be doing. I'm going for a pedal on saturday or sunday so i'll see if i can manage 2 laps of my circuit to take me up to 52 miles! Will i need jelly beans and stuff for that length of ride (about 3.5 hours) or should I just rely on stored glycogen from the previous days beer?
Luckypants
20-07-11, 01:34 PM
I'm going for a pedal on saturday or sunday so i'll see if i can manage 2 laps of my circuit to take me up to 52 miles! Will i need jelly beans and stuff for that length of ride (about 3.5 hours) or should I just rely on stored glycogen from the previous days beer?The beer will be a good start.... ;)
A good breakfast of cereal, porridge or muesli will provide a base of slow release carbs. Take a decent energy drink in your bottles plus something to make up another en route, you should be looking at drinking 3-4 bottles on that length of ride (others may disagree but British cyclist are notorious for not drinking enough). Then some energy bars to eat about halfway plus gels / jelly beans for a fast energy hit when a big effort is coming up, eat them 20 minutes before needed... :D
Jackie_Black
20-07-11, 01:38 PM
I've never done nutrition for cycling so hopefully won't get all this horribly wrong! I can't go out straight after breakfast though can i?
I suppose i should get some cages and bottles then as I currently just use a camel back. Does it have to be a specific energy drink or does robinsons count?
Tim in Belgium
20-07-11, 01:54 PM
A shameless plug,
Doing a bit of a run/cycle this summer if you 're interested in sponsoring me:
http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=168888 (http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=168888)
Note I'll be cycling from Robin Hood's Bay to St Bees by road over two days, a bit of a cop out (but taking in some passes on the second day), but I need to save my legs a bit for the run!
Do any of you commute in all weathers? What gear do you have that make it more palatable? Since having the new carbon fibre bike it has p****d down every day!
Also how do I improve my riding now I am commuting 12 miles each way to work?
Tim in Belgium
20-07-11, 08:41 PM
I used to in Holland, I used a Goretex running jacket, and neoprene overboots and left my bottom half got wet. It was only about 9 miles each way, and was endurable. Some decent gloves to keep your hands warm/dryish are also a good plan. And steady round corners!
fizzwheel
20-07-11, 08:56 PM
Do any of you commute in all weathers? What gear do you have that make it more palatable?
You get wet, no matter what you wear eventually if you are out long enough you will get wet.
I've got medium weight rain jacket for the winter, cycling tights with a windstopper barrier down the front and neoprene over shoes, that do the job, having mudguards on your bike also helps a tremendous amount. I found with the right wet weather gear on / proper cycling clothes even if I get wet I dont actually get cold and you also dry out again quite quickly once the rain does stop.
Also how do I improve my riding now I am commuting 12 miles each way to work?
What do you want to improve, just by putting miles in you'll get faster and stronger, if you've only just started that length commute just keep it up.
If you want to get faster then vary how you ride it, i.e. sprint / go flat out for a section of it, then ride one section slower then sprint again. Google for interval training.
Remember that rest / recovery is just as important as riding the bike is, so build recovery time in to what you are doing or rest at weekends.
454697819
20-07-11, 10:52 PM
You get wet, no matter what you wear eventually if you are out long enough you will get wet.
I've got medium weight rain jacket for the winter, cycling tights with a windstopper barrier down the front and neoprene over shoes, that do the job, having mudguards on your bike also helps a tremendous amount. I found with the right wet weather gear on / proper cycling clothes even if I get wet I dont actually get cold and you also dry out again quite quickly once the rain does stop.
What do you want to improve, just by putting miles in you'll get faster and stronger, if you've only just started that length commute just keep it up.
If you want to get faster then vary how you ride it, i.e. sprint / go flat out for a section of it, then ride one section slower then sprint again. Google for interval training.
Remember that rest / recovery is just as important as riding the bike is, so build recovery time in to what you are doing or rest at weekends.
agreed my commute is only 6 miles and I found my times have plateaued so I am now out of the saddle for sections, trying to ride my lungs out of my chest..
need to change my tyres for slicks and give the bike a service and get some spd's now :-)
Luckypants
21-07-11, 09:55 AM
I've never done nutrition for cycling so hopefully won't get all this horribly wrong! I can't go out straight after breakfast though can i?
Eat brekky, prepare bike / get changed, go out on bike. First 20 minutes is warm up for me, so by the time we are riding hard (ish) brekky has gone down.
I suppose i should get some cages and bottles then as I currently just use a camel back. Bottles are better than a camelbak as your back doesn't get hot, plus easy to access on a road bike.
Does it have to be a specific energy drink or does robinsons count? not sure if you are yanking my chain on this one... :rolleyes:
Jackie_Black
21-07-11, 12:38 PM
Well what i mean is what counts as an energy drink, are sugary dilute things ok to be going on with or do i need to be getting big tubs of specific powders to mix with water?
Luckypants
21-07-11, 01:05 PM
A drinking squash is quite 'sugary' but does not contain the amount of energy you may need. For a 2 hour ride they would be fine, but for longer rides you need to keep your carbs intake up as these will be used for exercise.
The amount of calories you burn basically depends on your effort level and your size (shifting a bigger body takes more effort) and typically will be 600-1200 an hour for a man while cycling. As an example, on a moderately hard hilly ride of 45 miles on Saturday I used just over 2000 calories on 'effort' (I'm reasonably fit, unfit folks burn more) in 2hours 40mins - obviously more are needed to maintain the body's metabolism at the same time, but that can be discounted while thinking of exercise nutrition. Where does that come from? Well stored glycogen probably provided half of it (500cal in liver and similar amount in muscle) then my muesli and orange juice breakfast provided a further 400, leaving a deficit of around 600 calories. The sports drink I use gives around 280cals a bottle, so the two I drank topped me up. Now some calories come from converting fat for energy during exercise, so it is OK to have some deficit, but not too much otherwise you run out of energy and bonk (aka hunger knock) so thinking about nutrition before a big ride is necessary IMO.
The advantage of a sports drink is that they are isotonic, so easily absorbed and can also contain electrolytes to counter the salts lost through sweating. I sweat like a *******, so I use electrolyte drinks otherwise I start to cramp and get dizzy spells.
So this is long way of saying that IMHO Robinsons is not enough for longer / intense rides. :)
Jackie_Black
21-07-11, 01:15 PM
Ok then, i'll go and have a look at edinburgh cycles.
Is there a brand that you recomend? I don't need any of the caffeine loaded rocket fuel type stuff do i? Just an isotonic thing.
I found these
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/ebwPNLqrymode.a4p?f_ProductID=0&f_WebLinkID=3194&f_SortOrderID=1&f_bct=c003154c003133c003194
which do you think is a winner?
Tubs of powders remind me of my bodybuilding days, except it was all proteins and creatines then!
Luckypants
21-07-11, 01:33 PM
I use SIS Go electrolyte drink, works for me. Try a few a few and settle on the one that 'agrees' with your stomach, some may make you feel bloated. you can usually buy sachets to try/carry with you of most makes.
Thinking of changing my recovery drink away from SIS, as theirs is a little chalky.
Wiggle have a wide range of this stuff if you need to shop online like me.
Jackie_Black
21-07-11, 03:11 PM
I'll try a handful of different ones, Edinburgh cycles is just down the road.
I'm hoping my new bits turn up soon pedals, shoes, tyres etc to give the bike a bit of a makeover. Quite looking forward to trying a 50 on the weekend!
fizzwheel
21-07-11, 03:14 PM
If like me you dont really get on with the SIS stuff ( I find it to sweet and after drinking alot of it, I end up feeling really sick which is no good on along ride ) then try some of the Nuun tablets, seem to me much less sugary and I find them more palatable.
Luckypants
21-07-11, 03:25 PM
Fair enough Fizz, but Nunn tablets are electrolyte only with no carbohydrate. That is fine if you can fuel yourself with various foods / gels, but don't think that Nunn tablets are the same thing as a sports energy drink.
For electrolyte only drink I use High 5 Zero as it's cheaper per tablet than Nunn and easier to get. I use it at spinning because I really sweat in that! I also use it for my bottle after a cafe stop on a long ride, to avoid overloading my stomach with carbs/sugar and getting that sick feeling.
fizzwheel
21-07-11, 04:09 PM
Very true, sorry I should have pointed that out. I use the Nuun and then use the powerbar gels to get carbs into me.
Like you said try and few and find the ones that work for you. Took me ages, but theres nothing worse on a long ride than feeling bloated and sicky. Oh and the Torqx energy drink whilst being tasty gives you your very own tailwind assisted ride if you know what I mean.
Luckypants
21-07-11, 04:15 PM
Oh and the Torqx energy drink whilst being tasty gives you your very own tailwind assisted ride if you know what I mean.Thats the one I was trying to to remember! I'm changing my recovery drink to Torqx after trying my mates. As for a tail wind, well I have that problem anyway due to a poor drinking technique that seems to make me gulp down a load of air as well.
Anyone looking for shorts, Ribble have an offer on at the moment...
http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sp/road-track-bike/Giordana-BIB-SHORTS-Giordana-Tenax-Carbon-bib-shorts/GIORZBBS300
Seem cheap enough but I don't know anyone who has used their shorts. Plus I'd be an XL according to Giordana's size chart! Not ready for XL shorts I'm afraid :jocolor:
JamesMio
21-07-11, 04:47 PM
I'd be an XL according to Giordana's size chart! Not ready for XL shorts I'm afraid :jocolor:
Pffft!! Consider yourself lucky (no pun intended!), going by that size chart I'm XXL..!!
Jackie_Black
21-07-11, 05:08 PM
I just ordered some bib shorts and apparently with my 38 inch waist im xxxl
Jackie_Black
21-07-11, 05:14 PM
Forgot to ask the other day, how can i go about blitzing fat while i'm doing this training? Do i need to seperate my fat burning training from my distance stuff? I had hoped to blast through a stone and a bit of the the tubby stuff.
Luckypants
22-07-11, 10:18 AM
Have a look here http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=167704 and here http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=118393 for some diet tips. Basically use more energy than you consume. :D
I did something similar; I started cycling and trying to lose weight. What worked for me was keeping a food diary using this (http://www.foodfocus.co.uk/) online tool, but there are many others such as the one on the Livestrong website (Daily Plate..). I kept a daily calorie deficit to burn off flab but also was able eat enough to fuel bike rides on riding days. I'm now much fitter and lost 2 and half stone, still want to lose another stone though....
As posted in the MTB thread
I have a £10 off £75 e-voucher code for chain reaction cycles. Anyone who wants it should PM me as I'm not looking to buy anything within 2 weeks.
maviczap
22-07-11, 06:20 PM
Thats the one I was trying to to remember! I'm changing my recovery drink to Torqx after trying my mates.
I've got a tub of Torqx and haven't had any complaints aboput it, although I prefer my Hi5 4:1 drink. No real reason apart from the flavour.
Just run out of Hi5 energy gels, so I be placing an order this week for a box or 6. Sweet tooth I'm afraid :p
Filipe M.
23-07-11, 02:36 PM
Give them hell, Cadel!!!!!!!!!
8-[
*crawls back under the rock*
Pedrosa
23-07-11, 03:37 PM
The Aussie blasted home for a well deserved tour win.Congratulations to him. Alberto really has not been himself throughout this year. Could the fact that the results,( or decision over them) of tests taken during last years race are expected next week, be playing on his mind?
After all if they come out wrong, he will have last years title ripped off him.Not the best of circumstances to be trying to defend your title.
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