Riding a fixed gear on an epic ride
07-30-10 | 11:57 PM
#27
Oscillation overthruster
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,532
Likes: 1
From: Duncan, BC
Bikes: Cinelli Mash / CAAD9 5
07-31-10 | 12:07 AM
#28
Senior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,959
Likes: 0
From: Flagler Palm Coast, FL
Bikes: 1986 Fuji Allegro 12 Spd; 2015 Bianchi Kuma 27.2 24 Spd; 1997 Fuji MX-200 21 Spd; 2010 Vilano SS/FG 46/16
https://www.redmondcyclingclub.org/index.html
https://www.redmondcyclingclub.org/RA...formation.html
The closest thing I could compare is the Ragner Relays for running. I don't do that, but I know a guy who runs on a team.
https://www.ragnarrelay.com/
I did drive a boat from Miami, FL to Jacksonville, FL on the same day just beyond the breaking surf line. I recall leaving at about 4 AM and getting to Jax around 5 PM. Between 350-375 miles based upon road distances, Boat averaged about 27-29 mph over 13 hours, the V-8 351 Windsor did all the work. You did 15 mph and powered the bike. No comparison there. But I can't imagine the mental toughness to ride a bike for just under 11 hours.
https://www.redmondcyclingclub.org/RA...formation.html
The closest thing I could compare is the Ragner Relays for running. I don't do that, but I know a guy who runs on a team.
https://www.ragnarrelay.com/
I did drive a boat from Miami, FL to Jacksonville, FL on the same day just beyond the breaking surf line. I recall leaving at about 4 AM and getting to Jax around 5 PM. Between 350-375 miles based upon road distances, Boat averaged about 27-29 mph over 13 hours, the V-8 351 Windsor did all the work. You did 15 mph and powered the bike. No comparison there. But I can't imagine the mental toughness to ride a bike for just under 11 hours.
07-31-10 | 11:32 PM
#31
Thread Starter
Matt Pendergast
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,421
Likes: 7,996
From: North Bend, Washington State
Bikes: 1937 Hobbs; 1977 Bruce Gordon; 1987 Bill Holland; 1988 Schwinn Paramount (Fixed gear); 1999 Fat City Yo Eddy (MTB); 2018 Woodrup (Touring) 2016 Ritchey breakaway
Thank you for all your comments. RAMROD was a great adventure
To answer some questions:
My bike is an 1988 Paramount converted to fixed gear. It fits me very well - this and the contact points: WTB SST saddle, Nitto Bar, and Crank Brothers Quattro pedals make it quite easy to ride for long periods of time.
I have no problems with my knees. I don't push a big gear.
Conditioning? Ride a lot. Long rides at least once a week. Commute 56 R/T several times a month - more when I can get away with it. I also think trail running helps too, especially up hills so you get used to being stressed physically. Doing a 12 mile climb out of the saddle feels more like running up a hill than riding to me. I am lucky enough to live in a fairly rural area so all this is easy for me (the long rides, trail runs).
To answer some questions:
My bike is an 1988 Paramount converted to fixed gear. It fits me very well - this and the contact points: WTB SST saddle, Nitto Bar, and Crank Brothers Quattro pedals make it quite easy to ride for long periods of time.
I have no problems with my knees. I don't push a big gear.
Conditioning? Ride a lot. Long rides at least once a week. Commute 56 R/T several times a month - more when I can get away with it. I also think trail running helps too, especially up hills so you get used to being stressed physically. Doing a 12 mile climb out of the saddle feels more like running up a hill than riding to me. I am lucky enough to live in a fairly rural area so all this is easy for me (the long rides, trail runs).
08-01-10 | 10:04 AM
#32
RACINGMIX
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 75
Likes: 0
From: Yuppie Galore 925
Bikes: Steel Track, Titanium SS Hardtail, Carbon Road
One word: CHAMOIS. Anything over 30 miles on the regular need to get some cycling briefs or shorts that have a pad in 'em.
Next, the most natural gear helps greatly. Your body, legs, knees won't allow yourself to ride over 40 miles again if you have the wrong gear. Just like the OP said, "it feels more like running up a hill" meaning it's a sustainable natural gearing that allows him to ride 100+ miles on a fixed gear. Bravo!
Next, the most natural gear helps greatly. Your body, legs, knees won't allow yourself to ride over 40 miles again if you have the wrong gear. Just like the OP said, "it feels more like running up a hill" meaning it's a sustainable natural gearing that allows him to ride 100+ miles on a fixed gear. Bravo!
08-02-10 | 03:13 PM
#33
Banana-tastic!
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,969
Likes: 0
