2009 Iceman SS
Hey all,
I tracked down and entry and will be heading up for this year's Iceman race. As I've never raced this before, any suggestions for an GIs would be appreciated. I generally roll with 58 - 62 GIs. Pushed 61 in this year's O2S.
thanks,
Toad
That is a good range I would go no lower than 58 and you can probably push those low 60's no problem.
I ran 65 gear inches last year, and will do so this year. Last year I finished in 1:53, and walked a couple hills. That would probably be a good choice for you... maybe 60-62ish if you like to spin.
Two years ago I raced the SS in the age class on a whim. I also had 65 GI and had a 2:01 but counted 5 hills I had to get off for, although one or two were due to other riders in the way. I think the gearing was just about right, I don't have any notes saying I would have changed it. It would have been good enough for 24th in SS class, back before they split into two age groups.
Pretty sure the guy that was 5th with a 1 hour 50 minute time last year ran 58 GI. I ran 61, it was fine but I probably would run 58 just due to the fact that you are at the mercy of 2500, wait, over 4000 this year, other people clogging up the trail. The last 8 miles are pretty hilly. My time last year was 2:03. If you had open trail you could probalby roll it alot faster.
I passed about 4 people on the last couple hills who had huges gears and had to hop off that I rode up.
"Spin to Win" - Wayne Cook
32x16x29 last year and it felt good. Nice, comfortably high cadence for the whole ride. No walking. I lost spots in the beginning, but got them back when the course entered the VASA trail and started rolling.
This year the start is going to be really important, more so than in the past, I think. I may try to push some more gear to keep up at the beginning. This is all weather dependent though.
I just got back from the UCI3 weekend in Cinci and due to the rain, the ground was super-soft all weekend. I had way too much gear each day and ended up getting waxed.
If it snows, all bets are off.
The 40+ class is bigger than the younger class. It will be a tough one as well with last year's winner signed up again plus Weinert and Wayne.
36/18 on a 29'r last year and can't complain, Walked a couple of hills and finished 2:10. Thinking of going 34/16 on the 29'r this year. This is what I ran in the soft rock this year at O2S. Will take extra gears with me so I can change for the weather.
that Mike Wissink may be riding SS as well. Podium spots are going to be tough pickins' this year. I'm hoping my S-Works SS comes in before the race. If I can't do well, at least I'll look good!
thanks for the input. see y''all up there.