Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
Strategy for a hilly 200k
I just signed up for the Dairyland Dare. This is a very popular challenge ride held near Dodgeville, WI. Participants can travel several different distances. I've completed the 150Km distance in 2009 & 2010. The weather will be very good on Saturday with dry and cool conditions in the 60 to 80f range, light winds also.
The 150Km is 10,300 ft of climbing and the 200Km is 12,400 ft of climbing according to the organizers. I'm targeting the 200Km for the first time.
Should I stick with a smaller group that will be going at a moderate pace? Should I go it alone?
I'm very good at keeping a sane pace as a solo rider. I tend to descend faster than 90% of the riders, but also take it slow when climbing.
I also tend to skip Aid Stations unless my bottles are near empty and I avoid wasting time when I do stop.
Solo or group? What would you do?
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When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.