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Lake Placid Gearing Question

brandonsaidbrandonsaid
in General Training Discussions

Looking for some advice from the Lake Placid veterans

Currently running a 50/34T Compact up front and a 12/25T in the back.  FTP is 224 and w/kg 3.7

Do I have enough gears to get me through the course with a cadence in 80s/90s?

Thanks!

Comments

  • J.T. ThompsonJ.T. Thompson
    While I have only ridden the course 3 times, I'd say that having a 27 or 28 on the back is helpful. While it looks like you are a strong rider, and could easily ride the course with a 25, it may take up more energy than you want before the run. I've never heard anyone complain that they had too much gearing on the back, so I'd make the investment - it will be a small amount compared to the rest of what you'll spend on the race.... image
  • Gordon CherwoniakGordon Cherwoniak

    Brandon,

    Consensus is that you will probably want more gearing 26 or 27.  See this thread for discussion and note that Chris G will be using a 11-26.  I forget his w/kg but he's a very strong cyclist and knows this course.  Also note what coach Rich says because if you do something stupid....

    http://members.endurancenation.us/T...fault.aspx

    Gordon

  • gopetegogopetego

    Brandon, doing IMLP as well, My tri race bike has a 50/34 compact w/a 28/12 on back. My FTP = 255ish and 2.8 w/kg and normal cadence = 85-90.

    I've road the LP course a couple of times last year (but in a triple ring road bike). I ride hills at home and although I only need the easiest gears on the toughest of hills (steeper than whats at LP), I realize that, like JT says, having the extra gears to keep my watts down while climbing is a nice luxury - especially knowing we have to run 26 miles. Also, the extra gears allow me to climb while staying aero more often - which doesn't have that much of an aero effect but - to me - it feels like I'm exerting less energy and I have a smoother pedal stroke. So - yes - you can do LP w/current set up - but come race day, on 2nd loop heading up the hills towards toward Wilmington - I think my big body will be happy with the extra gears. If your coming to the Camp - you can certainly find out if what you got works.
  • mgraffeomgraffeo

    Did the race (and camp) last year on slightly higher watts than you, but also heavier. I rode a compact, and was glad I had the 12-27.

  • henrysaccohenrysacco

    Definitely not a veteran, but rode LP last year (first IM) with a 12-28 and was very happy i had the extra gears. Followed the EN mantra on power and had a great run.

  • brandonsaidbrandonsaid
    Looks like I should go with the 12-27.

    Thanks for all the advice.

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    do the 27....
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