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IMAZ Bike Course-Big Ring or Little Ring?

m21519m21519
in General Training Discussions

TEAM EN;

In preparation for my final RR, and race course recon, I had a question regarding riding the bike course in the big or little ring.  When I did my first RR I rode smaller ring b/c I thought it was easier to hold my pace, (My FTP is 234, and I try to hold a 160W pace).  This Saturday I rode in the larger Ring, and I made MUCH better time on my course. I feel comfortable at 75-85 RPM... So, can any veterans share their preferences?  And/or opinions? 

Comments

  • Al TruscottAl Truscott
    In my three races there, I spent all my time in the big ring, except for a few miles up the "hill". My times were 5;29, 5:34, 5:4x. If you're riding in the little ring on flat ground, your gearing setup is not optimal.
  • Peter GreaggPeter Greagg
    Mike, it depends on where your 'natural' cadence is and the gaps between your gears on the rear cassette.
    In the small ring, as you change the rear cassette, the difference is much smaller than if you were in the big ring.
    Most rear cassettes have gaps that work better in the big ring — so as Al says, use the big ring if the cadence is in your personal sweet spot.
    FWIW, I have an FTP around 210 watts and use a compact and 11/26 for most hilly courses. For IM Australia which has two 15% climbs in it, I use the compact with a 11/30 — otherwise I really struggle up that hill!
  • wareagledustywareagledusty

    Mike, Al said it all.  Most of the course is big ring up front for me as well.  I did it last year in 5:29.  I focus on finding the balance of cadence and power output.  My FTP is 335 and sometimes I need to be in the small ring on slight climbs to have a comfortable cadence.  I could technically stay in the big ring but the cadence just isn't as comfortable.  As long as you find what works for you and are able to stay in your power zones you'll be fine.  Just don't stay in the big ring when you should be dropping down to stay in your power zone.  I saw tons of people at Tahoe mashing up climbs on the first loop.  Never saw them again though when I passed them on the flats....

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