Training for the 2012 season is just around the corner and what better way to kick it off than with a ss road bike. Why you ask? Simple; base miles are slow and steady easy rides, the ss can "force" you to ride at a consistent, easy pace. Mine is set up 39/16, which is a little on the high side, but I can keep a comfortable 84-87, 16.6 mph pace. This keeps my heart rate in Z2, around 128-154bpm; although I try to keep it below 145 most of the time. When the time is ready, this is a great hill repeat leg strength option, too; as you wont be tempted to switch to an easier gear when the going gets tough.
The coolest part of this is that you can convert any bike for this purpose. It can be done relatively cheap as well. I have an old Trek 2120 from 93'. If you are lucky enough to use the "magic" gear set up-this allows you to run a ss without a hideous chain tensioner-you can have a nice clean set up. Mine ended up being a total of 55 teeth-adding both front and rear together. Dont be tempted to put nice stuff on it either. This bike is the bike I use to ride in the rain and any other reason not to ride situations. It will get cruddy! But this saves your nicer road bike for the sunny days ahead.
So get out there and enjoy some easy, fun riding and even some rainy rides as well. Time will come soon enough for the harder stuff.
good post and a great point on the SS road..i've been mixing it up with a track bike for a while and it nice to have the option...i think it helps yer spin and gives a little strength training too.could be all in my head but..what ever works..congrats on the new gig btw...great way to start the holidays and new year off!
ReplyDeleteThanks, it has been a good change for me. Eh, it is probably all in your head; thats what makes us monocoggers special.
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