I've been less than satisfied with the results from my first couple of races this year. I don't know whether it is a lack of intensity in my early training, too manyy rest days, or I'm just plain slow. For what it is worth, I'm OK with any of those answers.
The good news is that I've got a plan to fix all of my woes. It is a plan that has genius written all over it. It is a plan that screams "Seven Tour championships". What is that plan, you ask?
I bought a new bike.
There is nothing like a new bike to re-energize your training and motivation. I know, now I've got eight bikes, seven of which I ride on a regular basis. Oh well. Maybe it is time for my son to inherit my hard tail.
Details and pictures will be forthcoming. Here are a couple of hints. Think spicy, and think big wheels.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
9 comments:
Do I taste Salsa? Maybe a bit soft in the rear?
Ding ding ding. No more calls please, we have a winner.
I bought Lou Waugman's Salsa Dos Niner. We rode at the Science Center last night. It's a sweet, sweet ride.
Paul, you're so right about having a new bike to reinvigorate the soul. Get that big ol' beast out on the dirt and get some azzkickin going. See you out there
Hey Pete.
I did a little tweaking to the setup and took it for a spin tonight. It fits like a glove. It feels SO good on the big wheels.
See you this weekend!
So, is there REALLY that much difference between 26 and 29?
Yup. It's not just hype.
Where it makes the biggest difference is roots, rocks, and other obstacles. They melt under the big wheels. Because of the bigger contact patch, sand is also less of an impediment.
THe downside is more weight for the bigger wheels, and slower acceleration because it takes more effort to spin up the big wheels. But it is also easier to carry momentum for the same reason.
Another downside is smaller selection when it comes to tires, wheels, and forks. But that is becoming less of a problem as 29ers move into the mainstream.
I've had a 29 inch singlespeed (GF Rig) for about a year, so I knew what I was getting into.
Riding the 29'er takes a little getting used to that's for sure. It took me over a year to finally like my fully ridgid Karate Monkey. However, one day, it just kicked in and I totally understood the bike and how to ride it. With a 29'er it is true the roots and rocks are less noticeable but rolling through the tight turns and single track is where the true difference lies. You must approach the turns a little differently then with a 26'er. I noticed the turns need to be approached with more of a sweep then jamming directly into the turn. I try to roll the turns instead of manuevering them. it works much better for me anyway. I love the 29'er so much that I sold all three 26'ers last year and built three 29'ers
YES!!! See you out in the dirt boys.
Pete,
Bruce Neil was telling me about the hazards of riding a tight, twisty course on a 29'er after the Sylvan Island race. He managed to hit several trees in the process.
Thanks for the advice.
The hazards are there but after a short break in period, you'll never notice the difference. Plus, the 29'ers just roll better!! Especially in the Peterson Pitts type of races. For us bigger dudes, (and some smaller ones like Squirrel), the 29'er is the way to go!!
See you in Waverly on Sunday...hopefully the rain holds off.
Post a Comment