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Thinking about a gear change

Bob IrwinBob Irwin
in General Training Discussions

I'm getting ready for full Vineman in roughly seven weeks.  Last year I did the half (I always do the half, but last year was the first year I had power, so it's the only one that counts), and there were three hills where I couldn't stay at my planned (based on my gear chart from the power webinar) watts for a hill.  I think one was because it was early, and I wasn't concentrating - the others were just too long and steep.  Last year my ftp was 178, and I weighed 174.  This year my ftp is 192 (maybe a few watts higher by race day), and I weigh 168 - probably about 162 by race day based on how I'm losing weight since I started race prep.  Target watts will be about the same since last year was a half and this year is a full.  I have EN compliant gearing now - compact with an 11/25.  Thinking about changing to an 11/27 for the race.  Is it really worth the trouble?

Comments

  • Coach RichCoach Rich
    You'd be better with a cassette with a 12t vs 11t cog. You won't use the 11t in the race and having a 25-12 vs 25-11 would give you a tighter gear ratio. No "trouble" to change gearing: ding the CC for about $75-80 for an Ultregra cassette and about 2' with a chain whip, cassette tool and wrench. If you think you "might" need the 26 or 27t, then chances are you will and won't regret having it on race day.
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