Southern California - Question for Vireo

As a RAAM rider you have put in many miles and hours of training. I assume you are completely comfortable on your bike for long periods of time. How did you get to that point? I've had several fittings and while I am pretty comfortable after 4 hours or so I start to get upper back and neck discomfort.

So is it that you found the perfect fit for you or did you build up to comfort for long periods over time?

As a RAAM rider you have put in many miles and hours of training. I assume you are completely comfortable on your bike for long periods of time. How did you get to that point? I've had several fittings and while I am pretty comfortable after 4 hours or so I start to get upper back and neck discomfort.

So is it that you found the perfect fit for you or did you build up to comfort for long periods over time?

1. Yes having the right size bike is important

2. Then you need to be properly fitted to the correct size bike.

3. Then you have to endure a certain amount of discomfort after 6-8 hours. Notice I didn't say PAIN. Discomfort is normal but you have to be able to discern the difference of discomfort and pain.

4. Double Centuries and longer Ultras are painful. Every part of your body aches but you have to push through the pain and finish the event. You focus on things like:

A. the hot shower you are going to take

B. the meal you are going to have

C. the bed and soft but firm pillows waiting for you at the hotel.

D. And as always you look for someone ahead of you and try to catch them.

E. The "welcome home" hug and kiss you will get when you cross the finish line.


Nothing I've said is earthshattering. But we can talk off line if you'd like.

Thanks. I feel that I am so close to getting my fit dialed. I have another century this weekend and I'll see how I feel after that. I might pick your brain a bit more.

I can see how riding ultra distance becomes such a mental game. Good luck on your ride this summer.

I think once you have the bike fit settled, it's just a matter of getting used to the time/miles on the bike. Pain begins to fade into discomfort.

As for looking forward to the post-ride food, I'm in the process of developing a light, carbon pole, about 3 feet long, which attaches to the front of one's helmet. It's sufficiently strong to hang a large burrito from, which you "chase" all the way to the finish line.

I think once you have the bike fit settled, it's just a matter of getting used to the time/miles on the bike. Pain begins to fade into discomfort.

As for looking forward to the post-ride food, I'm in the process of developing a light, carbon pole, about 3 feet long, which attaches to the front of one's helmet. It's sufficiently strong to hang a large burrito from, which you "chase" all the way to the finish line.


Great idea Matt....
Pictures please!!
I wonder if thats what Brandy is planning...hanging something from the motorhome and let them chase it!!

Great idea Matt....
Pictures please!!
I wonder if thats what Brandy is planning...hanging something from the motorhome and let them chase it!!

somehow I doubt it'll be a burrito though :p