Originally Posted by
rankin116
Isn't this the same kind of argument as a heavy vs light bike? You simply go slower for the same output with a heavier bike or heavy pack. Speed in this case is irrelevant, it's the work that matters, so use an HR monitor or go by RPE.
And yeah, riding with a bag sucks. I always found a well-secured messenger bag more comfortable than a backpack, but I also have a place to keep shoes, pants and toiletries at work.
It's a flat ride, so I was thinking more how the wind catches the big sail attached to my back. Yeah, it is the work that matters, which is why I don't mind all that much, but it's hard to know where I am at speed-wise for race applications.
Edit: I guess I should just get in the wind more in my 9 remaining practice races and I'll know then.