Road Cycling - Need help training for this one....

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sorebutt
03-01-04, 08:09 PM
I have registered to ride a 60 mile (100km) ride on April 3rd.

Although I am riding for for a couple of years the longest rides I do are a 35 miles loop with only 400 ft total vertical climb (takes me 2.5 hours net riding time).

The ride I have registered for is Tierra Bella Bicycle Tour (http://www.actc.org/tb/) described as:
100K (60.7 mi, 2065 ft) (http://www.actc.org/tb/route.html)
This flat to rolling route begins with a morning circuit around Uvas and Chesbro reservoirs, followed by a brisk mid-day climb to Gilroy Hot Springs. You'll round off the day with a descent down Canada Road and a tour through Gilroy to return to Gavilan College. Rest stops are about 24 miles apart.

I am 51 yrs old, weight 210lb (I'm a weight lifter), and in OK shape.. What would be the most officiant training program to ready my self for this ride (one month only)??


lsits
03-01-04, 08:57 PM
You have about a month. Here's my free advice (It's worth every penny): The distance shouldn't be too much of a problem. You're already over half way there. Start hitting the hills. Pick a hill that is challenging and see how far you can make it up without stopping. If you do that about three times a week you'll be surprised at how much you can increase that distance in three weeks. If you alternate that with some flat longer rides, you shouldn't have a problem. A week before the ride you should start cutting down on your training. Get at least one or two rest days a week. During the ride, don't go out too fast. Pace yourself. If you have to, walk up the hills. Nobody is going to criticize you. (At least I won't)

Good luck and have fun.

Oak Park Biker
03-01-04, 09:52 PM
In addition to more hills, you might practice the 100k route you intend to ride. At least, you will have an indication of any potential problems.


sorebutt
03-02-04, 09:33 PM
Thanks... I was afraid you'd say that (3 times a week on the hills) :) but it makes sense..

CarlJStoneham
03-04-04, 11:08 AM
Agree on the mileage. Did an MS150 last year and my longest ride was 60 miles. Did 85 on Day 1 with little trouble. Hardest part was a pretty steep, 1-mile incline. Hit the hills. If that isn't feasible, I'd suggest riding in a higher gear and standing up more often to try to simulate the difficulty of a hill. As for riding the route in advance, GREAT idea (though it might be discouraging). If nothing else, drive it. You might also got Topo USA 4.0 (if you can spare $100) and map out the route to see an elevation profile.