Tubes/Tools for Race Setup

Michael Quinton

What would work best for my race setup with bottles, tubes, tools?

Option A: 3 bottle setup + bento box - consisting of a bottle  BTA, down tube and seat tube. (2 for fluids and one for extra tube(s)/tools) Bento holding nutrition)

Option B: 2 Bottle setup (BTA, down tube), Bento Box, Bag under saddle for tubes/tools

I've trained with Option B but was hoping to achieve a more aero setup for IMCHOO. The only problem I'm having is finding the right bottle for Option A that will fit 2 tubes and C02.

Thanks for any and all input!

drjohnson08

I stuff 1 tube between the rails under my saddle. Would that help your Option A situation?

Michael Quinton

I was thinking about doing that Doug because everything else should fit in a bottle.! Do you use zip ties, taper, or anything to make sure it doesn't dislodge itself?

jfields74

I would stick with how you trained using option B. Many people do what Doug suggested. If you choose to do that make sure you secure it well because those 2 or 3 sets of railroad tracks can dislodge them quickly. I saw many bottles and other unsecured things at the first set of tracks that is not very far from T1.

drjohnson08

I've folded the tube up in a manner where I have to really stuff it in there and won't get dislodged, however, it's probably smart to do as Jamie suggests and secure it with some tape or something. Just remember that if you have to use the tube you want to be able to get it out too!

Michael Quinton

I think i've found a great solution that will work for me in this race!

http://www.elite-it.com/en/products/bottle-cages/accessories/byasi-superbyasi

I had not seen these tube/tool holders that fit in bottle cages until tonight when I was poking around when looking at some x-lab rear mount options (thanks Rich!). $12 on amazon prime and I'm in business! According to some reviews on Amazon, should be able to fit 2 x tubes, 2 C02 cartridges + inflator, and patch kit.

Robert Sabo

XLab makes 2 sizes (I have used the large one) and they recommend using a wide rubber band (supplied) to aid in keeping the "bottle" in the holder.

Michael Quinton

Thanks Robert- great intel. Coach Rich also mentioned rubber bands were helpful in keeping the water/GE bottles in place for aerobat cages since the bottles are so very flimsy once opened and drank out of. Given some of the rough spots on the course (RR tracks, etc.) i'll use several to keep things anchored!