Wade, my favourite climb is also Mt Ventoux, I remeber before ever climbing it I had this huge fear of it and trying to imagine myself being up close to that white tower on the top just felt out of reach. I finally got to do it in 2007 and I was so pumped that I climbed the best I have ever climbed, it's like I found this extra gear. I must say I have never felt as good as I did that day on any other climb.
I think it's the whoe stigma attached to this mountain that makes it so special.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Ventoux. I've done the Ventoux 3 times (in 3 days no less). I actually think it's not harder nor easier than Hotham, just different.
On Hotham you can get mad tempo right away and spin away from big legged crit monsters.
The only REALLY hard bits of Hotham are Entry gate->CRB hill and Razor. The rest is easy peasy.
James
· 2 months ago
Baw Baw... What a climb. I trained for 3 months for the Baw Baw Classic this year. My first ever road race. What the hell was I thinking. Hardest 4 and a half hours of my life!! The last hour was like nothing I have ever experience before.
Ran out of water with 30km to go.
Then the last 6km kicked in. I cramped as soon as it jacked up to 16%, but never got off the bike, and finished my first road race, all be it at the end of the field.
Took me about 50-55 minutes to do the last 6km.
What was I thinking??
Can't wait to do it again next year!
Jono Lovelock
· 2 months ago
love it!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
That's rad that you didn't get off dude! I'm doing it next year - my mate tells me dudes just get off and are broken souls.
I can't wait.
Get the 12/27 on!
CP
· 2 months ago
I am one of those broken souls. Many races I do have climbs that leave me stinging but no other race has everscared me as much as my failure to survive the last 6km of Baw Baw. Hotham was tough but Baw Baw has lefrt a scare that one day I'll have to mend!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
I'm interested to know what broke you in the end. Was it just a point that you said, "that's enough" and got off the bike.
I've been to that point before, but never been able to quit.
In L'Etape last year up the Ventoux, I was in serious trouble as I'd done it twice in the previous two days, and we'd just done around 150km at race pace in 35 degree weather. Serious pain.
But it was a case of looking down and just pedalling. And pedalling. The final couple of kays into the summit were horrible, and the only thing that kept me going was the horror at the thought of getting off, plus the fact I was still passing people.
The mind and your own will: are marvellous things.
Twoeee
· 2 months ago
Never really climbed any hills outside of Australia, not that many in Buckinghamshire. My favourite Climb is Baw Baw, because it was the best I raced ever. It hurt like hell but finishing at the top was awesome!
Juz
· 2 months ago
Climbing is a such an individual test, which exposes your strengths and weaknesses as a rider (you against the mountain and all that). There is great satisfaction to turn yourself inside out on a long climb, as there is such sweet relief at the end. Ah, the endorphin rush.
Sadly for those of us who edge toward and beyond 6 feet, there is a glass ceiling, above which riders under 70kg seem to float. When you look down at your power meter and are putting out 450watts and still getting passed, you know you are coming up against the law of diminishing returns. Time to return to the windy flat lands, get in a long solo break, smash those smaller cyclists and regain some self respect.
Still... there is something that a good long col can give you that a time trial never will.
JC
· 2 months ago
I hear ya Juz,
I love climbing too but at 78kgs I've felt the humiliation of being dropped on a long steep climb by a lightweight who is not required to work so hard. You need not wait for the flats to get your own back. Bring your 450 watts to a nice 5-6% climb and you'll blow those little flyweights out of the water.
David Rafferton
· 2 months ago
Sheeesh! My heart bleeds for you "heavy" 78kg riders! LOL I'm 92kg atm (going down- slowly) and currently training for Baw-Baw Classic in 2010. Yes, I expect to be last. ;)
jack
· 2 months ago
Andy Schleck is 6'1". HTFU Mr. Tall!
NB
· 2 months ago
in amateur road racing in Australia, in all but the hilliest races (Tour of Bright etc) you should be able to get yourself up the relatively short hills we encounter with the smaller riders. (With years of the corect training of course!). And then if you stick with 'em, you'll dust 'em in a sprint! Take that little fella!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
I don't necessarily agree with this. In the Northern Combine races (especially the Newham course) the little hills can be used by climbers to absolutely dust off the crit monsters. Put some pain into them (particularly end of race), recover, then bash them to finish off.
Are you racing ToB?
Unfortunately the Tawonga climb is from the wrong side to favour a pure climber, but I reckon a pure climber will put MINUTES into non climbers up that.
And up Hotham, MANY minutes.
CP
· 2 months ago
Very true! I'm 88kg and 6'2" I climb ok but I doubt I'd get classed as a climber in my bio. ToB the gap is a tough climb but if you conserve yourself in the cross winds (if possible) your tempo should keep you in a reasonable placing. I found with the ascent to Hotham the first third was whee people won and lost that stage. Many riders over committed and didn't capitalise on the mid section. In the third when it starts to resemble sharks teeth, most riders are locked into the same speed. There are few accelerations at this point of the race.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
CP: This is very interesting. This will be my first open race (this was my first season racing) and I am busy formulating strategy with my team mates -- some of you will be competitors on the day no doubt (I'm racing C grade).
We've been musing over where/how to attack. The false flat in the middle is interesting and a climber could lose time here IF there is a headwind. I think if you take off and take 2-3 with you and roll turns, you can win it in the first third easily.
I've taken off up the first 1/3 before, and been able to pace myself to the false flat and maintain a 30-35km/h speed through here to the entry gate.
It will be an interesting test of will and endurance to ignore heart race and race purely on will and body-feel, to keep up with those better, or dust off and sort out the lead group. I'll be honest and say I hope to be in that lead group, but I could be over-judging my ability. Who knows. Depends how many solid B graders drop down I guess.
Of course, all strategy counts for nought in that one moment when your instinct must rule your actions.
It's going to be fun, I'm getting nervous typing this!! :)
If you're up there, we should grab a beer after. Are you racing with SKCC?
modcon
· 2 months ago
you'll need quite a bit of punch to get away; last year C grade there were one or two away and we caught them and overtook. and as for B graders dropping down, last year's top three were all A graders :). the climbing is tough, but not that tough, i'm in at ~81kg 188cm and i finished top 10 after thinkin CRB hill was the top. oops
Tim
· 2 months ago
I looked at the winner from last year, he won Stage 1 by 14 secs or so, and stage 2 by 2 mins. The finish is at the Bright-Harrietville Rd so I reckon it's a lot easier to maintain a gap on a breakaway than if you had to finish into Bright.
I'm down to 60kg now, so it's all useful.
Your comment about A graders really confirms something to me. ALL races raced under a CA race license MUST go to a central scoring / rating repository and at open races like this, you are forced into your rated category, of course taking into account people who have been sick etc.
Interesting re: 81kg and finished top 10. I'm 60kg/5'7" so we'll see I suppose.
modcon
· 2 months ago
yeah it was an interesting mix- some of the others in top 10 looked easily 80kg+ too. also, the second stage is made somewhat easier for those in posession of a time trial rig - i know some of top times were recorded on TT rigs. there are a lot of discrepancies bw riders in all the grades- we caught B grade riders for example, but the tail of C was quite far off the start.
anyway it's gonna be some wicked fun!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
I like the grades in the TT. It's certainly not flat. Well if people racing C grade can afford TT rigs good luck to them. The best I can do is maybe borrow some Durace 7850 clinchers to get some nice momentum.
Getting close!! :)
Be good to know who from here is going to be at the SKCC boot camp. Should organise a hello/beer.
Amy
· 2 months ago
So you think it's worth carting the TT bike up there? I wasn't going to bother.. But maybe I will.. How is the course? Suited to a TT bike?
Maybe the fact the top times were recorded on TT rigs are just because those that are good at TTing own TT bikes? (or have some form of triathlon background and own one from that..)
modcon
· 2 months ago
i'd say if you have one, why not use it? unless you haven't trained on it that is ;). amy i think it's a bit of both- people who have the TT bikes probably also train on them and are half decent TTers. i borrowed some clincher zipps up there and pulled a time just out of top 10, probably could have benefited from further practice with TT bars, but that's life. the course isn't really hilly, not after the mornings stage at least. just a few power climbs/bumps. also depends on the wind, there was a tailwind on the return good for >50kph
Juz
· 2 months ago
Throw in avoidance of food and a bit of body image distortion, and he would meet the diagnostic criteria for Anorexia Nervosa too.
Great post Wade, I love climbing sooooooooo much! As far as I'm concerned your not a cyclist if your not riding in the Hills. Anyone can fly along Beach Rd at 30-40km but get them in the Hills and watch them hurt. Its the pain, mental determination and not knowing if the road keeps going up around the next bend that's so appealing. I hate riding down them, if only I could find a climb that NEVER stops! It helps when you only weigh 68kg as well. Mt Ventoux is on my list for next year, hopefully I'll get some good photos for you.
Boz
· 2 months ago
Personally, I hate climbing.
Snowy
· 2 months ago
Dont be despondent if you cant climb, its not much fun anyway. Life would be easier as a sprinter. Sadly I am 6ft tall and only 57kg..... stuck as a climber. Just because lightweights go up hills faster doesnt mean it hurts any less.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
WHAT ARE YOU EVEN ON ABOUT!?
Hmmm. Glory as some sort of crit monster Cavendish or a galloping gazelle Contador. I know what I'd take.
Real men ride mountains.
I'D KILL for a 57kg frame. I'm stuck on 62-64
Eddie
· 2 months ago
Your complaining about 62-64??? Jesus!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Nein I am not. It's a good balance. (Remember, I used to be 88kg, so anyone can do it)
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Update: I was sick all last week with this Nora virus. No eating for 4-5 days (I normally eat 6 times a day).
Result: down to 60kg. Bam.
Jake S
· 2 months ago
I remember a few years back we rode up Mt Hotham on the MTB's at the same time the AIS were there. They passed us 3 times- once on the way up, once coming down, then once again coming up. D'ow!
What gear ratio do people use for Buffallo?? At 85KG I can get myself up the shorter climbs okay on a 39X23, but I'm guessing I'd struggle on longer climbs with a kick at the end.. Have just signed up for the 3 Peaks Challenge and am contemplating a compact crankset.
JC
· 2 months ago
Jake,
I don't think there's anything wrong with sticking to the light gear ratio on steep climbs - you'll save your legs. If you maintain a cadence up over 70 the small gear will get you to the top of a steep climb pretty smartly.
Domestique
· 2 months ago
Jake
I have a brand new set of Shimano compact cranks 50/34 at 175mm if you need them.
Mick
Jake S
· 2 months ago
Hey Mick,
Could be in with a deal- 175mm is what I'm after.. What b/bracket do they need- I'm still riding with the older style shimano (internal bearings).. Perhaps drop me an email at jacob_sumsion@yahoo.com
Does the fact that that you have these sitting there mean you didn't like them??
Jake
Cam99
· 2 months ago
I'm 85kg and climbed Baw Baw last year with 39X25 ... I'm still undergoing conselling due to the shock of it all ;-) I was thinking at the time I'd be faster on my MTB !
My advice go the compact crankset
Wade you simply have to climb Baw Baw - nothing to do with making you a better cyclist - I just want to read your ride report
Lachy
· 2 months ago
Bring on the three peaks challenge next year! :D
Anyone else doing it?
Spencer
· 2 months ago
i'm signed up for the audax 250 in Jan? that the same thing? It's gonna be awesome!!
Snowy
· 2 months ago
Im thinking a big trip to the 250 and an even bigger trip to the bright pub afterwards........
Lachy
· 2 months ago
Hey Spencer,
Not sure what the audax 250 is (I googled it and got spiders?!) but the 3 peaks is in march next year check it out:
The ACE250 starts and finishes in Bright unlike the 3 Peaks which starts with a crazy fun descent, but in the cold and dark!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Gawd there are sooo many silly rules to riding the Audax it's hardly worth it.
Mick
· 2 months ago
I'm brand spankin' new to the cycling game but am very much in love with it. Climbing is a bit of a fact of life i've found up here in Sydney and man was I screamin like a baby about half way up Rose Bay this morning with another 4km of climb left to go! I'm slowly realising that there is a lot of satisfaction in making it to the top and the bigger the climb the greater the thrill, its just that its gonna take me some time and more training to get past the thigh screaming, lung busting pain I'm experiencing at the moment!
A
· 2 months ago
Appropriately timed with Tour of Bright coming up for many of us!
My favourite part of climbing, is descending...
Justin
· 2 months ago
Hahahaha!!! I love it! Classic line.
AJS
· 2 months ago
Why do I prefer climbing? 1) Sense of achievement; 2) Link to history - particularly when taking on the major climbs in Europe; 3) Scenery; 4) The descent that follows.
Simon G
· 2 months ago
I'm signed up for the 3 peaks as well and you're comments about Mt Hotham area scaring me a little :) I see many painful hours at Mt Dandenong or the Yarra Valley in my future...
Stephen
· 2 months ago
I will be signing up for the 3 peaks in the next day or so. Still trying to get my mind in the right frame, esp for the training that will be required. I found this on the BV website. I can see all these rides in my near future. http://www.bv.com.au/file/file/3Peaks%20Trainin...
Haywarm
· 2 months ago
I used to hate climbing. I rediscovered cycling at 97kgs. I always struggled to hold on as the road went up. I read somewhere "It never gets easier, you just get faster". Something clicked in me with this, and I decided that the only way to get better at it was to do it more. Now I'm 77kgs and I can put out a little more power, so I can now hang on when the road goes up. I still can't respond to accellerations real well, but I have learned to love the hurt.
Get to the razor's edge that is the red zone and sit there all the way up. Bang it down one cog, and launch over the top.
NB
· 2 months ago
I love climbing, and I'm over 80 kg. Why? Because on a quiet, still morning all you can hear is the quiet whirring of your chain and your breathing. It's like meditation for me. It's awesome.
Travis
· 2 months ago
Have to agree with Jack here Mr Tall HTFU I am 6'5 and 110kg and love having a crack at hills. There are a few hills out there that kick my ass but i don't forget and I will beat them.
Domestique
· 2 months ago
I hear you Travis. I too am 195cm and about 96 kg's on the way down. I usually do all the work out the front of my group towing them all over the peninsula. But have always been able to have a good crack at the climbs. Finding a good tempo and knowing your red zone are the key. Staggered training to build up a climbing base and believing in yourself. Your mind can add 30 kg's on a climb. It can also take 30 off. One of the best things about climbing is going back down again.....
Doing 3 peaks and Mt Buller again next year...
Travis
· 2 months ago
Couldn't agree with you more Domestique, I generally chide the little people (under 90kg) that i ride with who sit on my wheel when there is any wind because they are afraid of getting blown off their bike and then not doing anything to help the work horse over the top of a hill. In saying that going down hill on light bike with a great set of wheels at my weight is pure joy for the amount of acceleration you get.
Gotta go up to come down fast
Marchello
· 2 months ago
The view from the top is GREAT. One of my favorites is Hotham, and riding out to Omeo and back - quiet road and great views.
No point being a sprinter if you cant keep with the pack going over the hills. I thought I was ok at climbing until i did the Shepperton race this year - got dropped on both hills and had to work like hell to catch back.
As the saying goes "What doesnt kill you will make you stronger!"
Marchello
· 2 months ago
I also enjoyed Mt William in the Grampians - very hard to beat those views in Victoria - but it is tough!
AMR Cycling
· 2 months ago
Nice post, Mr!
Lucky you having some mountains down there!!! Still, we have a few ramps up North: [url]http://amrcycling.blogspot.com/2009/08/mt-nebo-road.html[/url] Enjoy Bright!!!
A.
Chris
· 2 months ago
Fave spectacular climb ridden is the Stelvio, hardest the Angliru - at the Vuelta more people seem to ride mountain bikes up it than roadbikes!
For Victoria - Hotham is magic and Baw-Baw is pure evil...
David
· 2 months ago
I love climbing, but I don't get enough of it. I live in Richmond and do the Yarra Boulevard regularly, but that hardly counts - I want climbs that keep going and going...
Where are the best places around here? Do I need to ride out to Mt Dandenong to get some decent climbs, or are there any decent climbs that are closer?
David Rafferton
· 2 months ago
Yep head out to the 'nongs or to Kinglake. If you want a real long climb, do Donna Buang. That's about an hours worth of climbing there. I'm planning of working up to 3 or 4 repeats of DB in my lead up to Baw Baw. Alternatively, head up to Bright for a weekend and climb all the mountains around there. Best riding I've ever done was up that way. Stunning on a sunny day.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Macedon. Park at Hanging Rock. Over the back, 4km of 10%+ Down to Mc Bean Avenue, turn around, back up. About 7km+ of steep. 10%, 7%, 12%, 15%. Get to Woodend-Romsey Rd, turn around, repeat.
I'll be doing that this weekend if I don't race the Rush crits.
David Rafferton
· 2 months ago
That sounds good. If SKCC crits get rained out, I might do the same.
AMR Cycling
· 2 months ago
Bright?! Mt Hotham?! Lucky you have some mountains down there, in the SE/QLD we only race on a few "ramps". Still, we have a few nice climbs, Mt Nebo being one of Brisbane's best. I was planning to come down for ToB this year and was relly looking forward to try Mt Hotham but it is not going to happen (once again)... Might plan for Baw Baw 2010!
Thoughts: *** Bent over the bar, head down, staring at your knees as they turn slowly over. Slowly. "Oh, why is this so HARD?" Blinking sweat from your eyes. Air searing your lungs.
Look back. No chasers.
"I'm home", you think, "yessss".
A peaceful lassitude descends upon you as you sink into the ethereal and soulful pain resulting from Man Vs Mountain. Flick the sleeves back up your shoulders.
A cool breeze trails its tendrils across your sun-kissed skin, bringing sweet relief, albeit temporarily.
"90, must stay at 90rpm. DAMN! I NEED MORE GEARS". Flicking, hoping another gear will magically make itself available.
Standing up, resting aching glutes, back, hamstrings, quads. Everything. Aches. Sitting in those groups on the flats doesn't hurt this much. But pain never felt so good.
Look up. More asphalt. Up. And Up. "Oh man", you grimace, but smirk at the same time. Music in your ears. Fast. Loud. "Must remember to hide that before the top."
"Why is this so HARD" you ask yourself. Anyone. No-one answers. "I will beat you mountain. I am not walking. Do you understand. This is mine to win. I. Will. Overcome."
Impassive, the millenia-old hill neither speaks, nor cares. It just is.
The final climb beckons. You look down, ignoring your heart rate. It's too late anyway. You entered the red zone ages ago. Will and determination are your friends now. Not telemetry. "15%?", gawwwwwd.
Up. Back aching. Begging for a rest. "Nope, I'm home and hosed." People line the road, clapping. Exhorting. I. Can. Do. This.
And then. Flat.
Boy, that was fun.
***
To truly experience the wonder, freedom from distraction of modern life etc of climbing, I recommend you climb a big big hill on a hot day and put yourself deep into the red zone.
Go to France and do the cols.
My favourites: Hotham Galibier Ventoux
After next year I shall hopefully report back on Tourmalet Peyresourde d'Aspin d'Aubisque Croix de Fer Madeleine Glandon AND the big banger Start: Bourg d'Oisans -> Glandon/Croix de Fer -> Telegraphe -> Galiber -> Alpe d'Huez. In one day. ~257km/3 x HCs, 1 Cat 1 (though Telegraphe from St Michel de Maurienne is not an easy climb). Galiber/Tele: http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-... Alpe D'Huez: http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-...
Word tim
Haywarm
· 2 months ago
Nice one Tim
Have Bike will travel
· 2 months ago
The hills are alive with the sound of my bike
Nathan Merckx
· 2 months ago
Best Sydney-s climbs?
Dave C
· 2 months ago
Did a 3 month trip to Europe this year and knocked the following notable climbs off:
Passo del Bracco (2009 Giro TT) Passo dello Stelvio Passo Mortirolo Passo Gavia Passo Foscagno Passo Eira Passo Bernina Passo Maloja Madonna del Ghisallo Sustenpass Col du Pillon Col de la Madeleine Col du Glandon Col du Lauteret Col du Galibier Alpe d'Huez Mont Ventoux
Yes, I'm bragging! I could rate them but it is so dependent on how the legs are, what bike was used, weather and so on.
Favourite: Stelvio. Iconic, perfect day, amazing scenery. Still tough. Hardest: Probably Ventoux but it was so busy (day before Tour) and we stopped so many times it was hard to tell. Scariest: Gavia, with Mortirolo in the legs already, running late, weather turned to freezing and no lights in tunnels! Beautiful: Descent off Glandon down to Boug d'Oisans - amazing.
I used to be a track rider and have not a climbers build but I absolutely love it. I think it's actually easier mentally than riding hard on the flats.. there's a very obvious reason why it hurts therefore you can get on with testing and challenging yourself - literally conquering that mountain. It can be very meditative. The goal is tangible and the rewards are endless.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Only thing missing from that are Croix de Fer, Iseran, Izoard and Bonnet Restafond. Maybe Telegraphe too.
Fark, get me back there. My buddy has bailed on me for next year, I need a travel partner.
D-Man
· 2 months ago
For an awesome cycling/climbing experience try and get over to France for L'Etape. They take the queen stage of each TdF (usually one or more bucket list climb) and let the public race on closed roads on the tour's rest day. Did the 07 version (5 passes in 197km) and it was the hardest/greatest day on the bike I've ever done. Though seeing the pros do it a few days later at warp speed was pretty humbling...
Would have to say that Alpe D'Huez is a fantastic climb. Whilst not overly difficult it's no walk in the park either. The best part is that you can feel the history seeping off the road - a real cycling mecca. Just thinking of the cycling royalty who've ridden that climb before you seems to give you an extra pair of legs. Plus the more you get into it, the faster you seem to get.
Mt Ventoux is just intimidating - a massive object in the middle of nowhere that just threatens from miles out. It starts off hard, eases off for quite a while, then progressively getts more difficult the higher up you get. It really turns the screw re: pain threshold; and just keeps on going. I've forgotten how hard it was - the sense of achievement of making it to the top takes care of that. The worst part is that once you hit the moonscape near the top you can still see how far you've got to go. When you've finished, is so cold and windy, and you're so high up, it's scary. Awesome descent though (beware of wind gusts and of freezing your balls off).
The best thing about climbing is that it's a real good judge of character: you're suffering on a climb, time has slowed to a standstill, sweat poring off you, one pedal stroke at a time only to realise you're going nowhere fast, all you can see is just more hill in front you, welcome to Painsville, population: you! Then comes the moment of truth: Do you give up? Are you a quitter? Or do you just tap it out, keep on tapping it out, dig deep to get your focus back on the job at hand and work to get some of that rhythm back. Nothing compares to hitting those depths then coming back out the other side.
I wish I were climbing right now... love the pain!!!!
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Check out ze links above to some video of L'Etape 09 and some climbing of Galibier and Alpe D'Huez
I think Alpe D'Huez is tricky, but not hard. You can't really get tempo. I think I timed around 41mins or something. We had it on a picture perfect day (like I said, check video above). Deux noisettes + croissant avec confiture, then ramping up the hill.
word t
AJS
· 2 months ago
A couple other European sportives to consider, Maratona dles Dolomites, Quebrantahuesos, La Marmotte. La Marmotte takes on Col du Glandon, Col du Telegraphe, Col du Galibier and finishes at the top of Alpe d'Huez. The Maratona is broadcast live on RAI in Italy. One advantage of the Maratona over the others ... you start and finish in the same place.
Tim M
· 2 months ago
Good point. L'Etape suffers from very poor timing in terms of fitting in with TdF schedule.
We got screwed last year by transfers and ended up parking in Maulacene, riding into Nyons, backward along the course (I'll never forget everyone looking at us like "What le hell is going on" and gendarmes trying to whistle us to stop) then ride with L'Etape to the top, then descend down into Maulacene and drive to St Bourg Maurice for S16. Crazy times.
The Marmotte sounds AWESOME. Thanks for the heads up.
peter
· 2 months ago
personally, the mere fact that 110 kg takes a lot of effort to get out of bed, is little wonder that it takes even more to go up a hill...it is sensible and logical that Beach Road is the choice as it is nice and comfortable. But after 2 runs on Diamond Creek 2 (i think) and then back to Beach Road....even easier. So with that in mind and that my strength with hills and the smug overweight feeling when free wheeling and passing the littlies riding flat down the other side more than makes up for the up hill grind. Back to the hills.....with the French Alps in mind, and off I grind....39x25
All Comments
I think it's the whoe stigma attached to this mountain that makes it so special.
Check out my Ventoux recces here (including L'Etape 09):
http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-...
http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-...
On Hotham you can get mad tempo right away and spin away from big legged crit monsters.
The only REALLY hard bits of Hotham are Entry gate->CRB hill and Razor. The rest is easy peasy.
Ran out of water with 30km to go.
Then the last 6km kicked in. I cramped as soon as it jacked up to 16%, but never got off the bike, and finished my first road race, all be it at the end of the field.
Took me about 50-55 minutes to do the last 6km.
What was I thinking??
Can't wait to do it again next year!
I can't wait.
Get the 12/27 on!
Many races I do have climbs that leave me stinging but no other race has everscared me as much as my failure to survive the last 6km of Baw Baw. Hotham was tough but Baw Baw has lefrt a scare that one day I'll have to mend!
I've been to that point before, but never been able to quit.
In L'Etape last year up the Ventoux, I was in serious trouble as I'd done it twice in the previous two days, and we'd just done around 150km at race pace in 35 degree weather. Serious pain.
But it was a case of looking down and just pedalling. And pedalling.
The final couple of kays into the summit were horrible, and the only thing that kept me going was the horror at the thought of getting off, plus the fact I was still passing people.
The mind and your own will: are marvellous things.
Sadly for those of us who edge toward and beyond 6 feet, there is a glass ceiling, above which riders under 70kg seem to float. When you look down at your power meter and are putting out 450watts and still getting passed, you know you are coming up against the law of diminishing returns. Time to return to the windy flat lands, get in a long solo break, smash those smaller cyclists and regain some self respect.
Still... there is something that a good long col can give you that a time trial never will.
I love climbing too but at 78kgs I've felt the humiliation of being dropped on a long steep climb by a lightweight who is not required to work so hard. You need not wait for the flats to get your own back. Bring your 450 watts to a nice 5-6% climb and you'll blow those little flyweights out of the water.
Are you racing ToB?
Unfortunately the Tawonga climb is from the wrong side to favour a pure climber, but I reckon a pure climber will put MINUTES into non climbers up that.
And up Hotham, MANY minutes.
We've been musing over where/how to attack. The false flat in the middle is interesting and a climber could lose time here IF there is a headwind. I think if you take off and take 2-3 with you and roll turns, you can win it in the first third easily.
I've taken off up the first 1/3 before, and been able to pace myself to the false flat and maintain a 30-35km/h speed through here to the entry gate.
It will be an interesting test of will and endurance to ignore heart race and race purely on will and body-feel, to keep up with those better, or dust off and sort out the lead group. I'll be honest and say I hope to be in that lead group, but I could be over-judging my ability. Who knows. Depends how many solid B graders drop down I guess.
Of course, all strategy counts for nought in that one moment when your instinct must rule your actions.
It's going to be fun, I'm getting nervous typing this!! :)
If you're up there, we should grab a beer after. Are you racing with SKCC?
I'm down to 60kg now, so it's all useful.
Your comment about A graders really confirms something to me. ALL races raced under a CA race license MUST go to a central scoring / rating repository and at open races like this, you are forced into your rated category, of course taking into account people who have been sick etc.
Interesting re: 81kg and finished top 10. I'm 60kg/5'7" so we'll see I suppose.
anyway it's gonna be some wicked fun!
Getting close!! :)
Be good to know who from here is going to be at the SKCC boot camp. Should organise a hello/beer.
Maybe the fact the top times were recorded on TT rigs are just because those that are good at TTing own TT bikes? (or have some form of triathlon background and own one from that..)
Makes you wonder about his bone density. http://www.velonews.com/article/99433/a-sports-...
He can climb like no one's business, however.
Hmmm.
Glory as some sort of crit monster Cavendish or a galloping gazelle Contador. I know what I'd take.
Real men ride mountains.
I'D KILL for a 57kg frame. I'm stuck on 62-64
It's a good balance.
(Remember, I used to be 88kg, so anyone can do it)
Result: down to 60kg. Bam.
What gear ratio do people use for Buffallo?? At 85KG I can get myself up the shorter climbs okay on a 39X23, but I'm guessing I'd struggle on longer climbs with a kick at the end.. Have just signed up for the 3 Peaks Challenge and am contemplating a compact crankset.
I don't think there's anything wrong with sticking to the light gear ratio on steep climbs - you'll save your legs. If you maintain a cadence up over 70 the small gear will get you to the top of a steep climb pretty smartly.
I have a brand new set of Shimano compact cranks 50/34 at 175mm if you need them.
Mick
Could be in with a deal- 175mm is what I'm after.. What b/bracket do they need- I'm still riding with the older style shimano (internal bearings).. Perhaps drop me an email at jacob_sumsion@yahoo.com
Does the fact that that you have these sitting there mean you didn't like them??
Jake
I'm still undergoing conselling due to the shock of it all ;-)
I was thinking at the time I'd be faster on my MTB !
My advice go the compact crankset
Wade you simply have to climb Baw Baw - nothing to do with making you a better cyclist - I just want to read your ride report
Anyone else doing it?
Not sure what the audax 250 is (I googled it and got spiders?!) but the 3 peaks is in march next year check it out:
http://www.3peaks2010.com.au/
The ACE250 starts and finishes in Bright unlike the 3 Peaks which starts with a crazy fun descent, but in the cold and dark!
Climbing is a bit of a fact of life i've found up here in Sydney and man was I screamin like a baby about half way up Rose Bay this morning with another 4km of climb left to go!
I'm slowly realising that there is a lot of satisfaction in making it to the top and the bigger the climb the greater the thrill, its just that its gonna take me some time and more training to get past the thigh screaming, lung busting pain I'm experiencing at the moment!
My favourite part of climbing, is descending...
1) Sense of achievement;
2) Link to history - particularly when taking on the major climbs in Europe;
3) Scenery;
4) The descent that follows.
I found this on the BV website. I can see all these rides in my near future.
http://www.bv.com.au/file/file/3Peaks%20Trainin...
I rediscovered cycling at 97kgs.
I always struggled to hold on as the road went up.
I read somewhere "It never gets easier, you just get faster".
Something clicked in me with this, and I decided that the only way to get better at it was to do it more.
Now I'm 77kgs and I can put out a little more power, so I can now hang on when the road goes up.
I still can't respond to accellerations real well, but I have learned to love the hurt.
Get to the razor's edge that is the red zone and sit there all the way up. Bang it down one cog, and launch over the top.
Doing 3 peaks and Mt Buller again next year...
In saying that going down hill on light bike with a great set of wheels at my weight is pure joy for the amount of acceleration you get.
Gotta go up to come down fast
No point being a sprinter if you cant keep with the pack going over the hills. I thought I was ok at climbing until i did the Shepperton race this year - got dropped on both hills and had to work like hell to catch back.
As the saying goes "What doesnt kill you will make you stronger!"
Lucky you having some mountains down there!!!
Still, we have a few ramps up North:
[url]http://amrcycling.blogspot.com/2009/08/mt-nebo-road.html[/url]
Enjoy Bright!!!
A.
For Victoria - Hotham is magic and Baw-Baw is pure evil...
Where are the best places around here? Do I need to ride out to Mt Dandenong to get some decent climbs, or are there any decent climbs that are closer?
Park at Hanging Rock.
Over the back, 4km of 10%+
Down to Mc Bean Avenue, turn around, back up. About 7km+ of steep.
10%, 7%, 12%, 15%.
Get to Woodend-Romsey Rd, turn around, repeat.
I'll be doing that this weekend if I don't race the Rush crits.
If SKCC crits get rained out, I might do the same.
Lucky you have some mountains down there, in the SE/QLD we only race on a few "ramps".
Still, we have a few nice climbs, Mt Nebo being one of Brisbane's best.
I was planning to come down for ToB this year and was relly looking forward to try Mt Hotham but it is not going to happen (once again)... Might plan for Baw Baw 2010!
***
Bent over the bar, head down, staring at your knees as they turn slowly over. Slowly. "Oh, why is this so HARD?" Blinking sweat from your eyes. Air searing your lungs.
Look back. No chasers.
"I'm home", you think, "yessss".
A peaceful lassitude descends upon you as you sink into the ethereal and soulful pain resulting from Man Vs Mountain. Flick the sleeves back up your shoulders.
A cool breeze trails its tendrils across your sun-kissed skin, bringing sweet relief, albeit temporarily.
"90, must stay at 90rpm. DAMN! I NEED MORE GEARS". Flicking, hoping another gear will magically make itself available.
Standing up, resting aching glutes, back, hamstrings, quads. Everything. Aches. Sitting in those groups on the flats doesn't hurt this much. But pain never felt so good.
Look up. More asphalt. Up. And Up. "Oh man", you grimace, but smirk at the same time. Music in your ears. Fast. Loud. "Must remember to hide that before the top."
"Why is this so HARD" you ask yourself. Anyone. No-one answers.
"I will beat you mountain. I am not walking. Do you understand. This is mine to win. I. Will. Overcome."
Impassive, the millenia-old hill neither speaks, nor cares. It just is.
The final climb beckons. You look down, ignoring your heart rate. It's too late anyway. You entered the red zone ages ago. Will and determination are your friends now. Not telemetry. "15%?", gawwwwwd.
Up. Back aching. Begging for a rest. "Nope, I'm home and hosed."
People line the road, clapping. Exhorting. I. Can. Do. This.
And then. Flat.
Boy, that was fun.
***
To truly experience the wonder, freedom from distraction of modern life etc of climbing, I recommend you climb a big big hill on a hot day and put yourself deep into the red zone.
Go to France and do the cols.
My favourites:
Hotham
Galibier
Ventoux
After next year I shall hopefully report back on
Tourmalet
Peyresourde
d'Aspin
d'Aubisque
Croix de Fer
Madeleine
Glandon
AND the big banger
Start: Bourg d'Oisans -> Glandon/Croix de Fer -> Telegraphe -> Galiber -> Alpe d'Huez. In one day. ~257km/3 x HCs, 1 Cat 1 (though Telegraphe from St Michel de Maurienne is not an easy climb).
Galiber/Tele: http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-...
Alpe D'Huez: http://www.shredquest.com/travel/france09/july-...
Word
tim
Passo del Bracco (2009 Giro TT)
Passo dello Stelvio
Passo Mortirolo
Passo Gavia
Passo Foscagno
Passo Eira
Passo Bernina
Passo Maloja
Madonna del Ghisallo
Sustenpass
Col du Pillon
Col de la Madeleine
Col du Glandon
Col du Lauteret
Col du Galibier
Alpe d'Huez
Mont Ventoux
Yes, I'm bragging! I could rate them but it is so dependent on how the legs are, what bike was used, weather and so on.
Favourite: Stelvio. Iconic, perfect day, amazing scenery. Still tough.
Hardest: Probably Ventoux but it was so busy (day before Tour) and we stopped so many times it was hard to tell.
Scariest: Gavia, with Mortirolo in the legs already, running late, weather turned to freezing and no lights in tunnels!
Beautiful: Descent off Glandon down to Boug d'Oisans - amazing.
I used to be a track rider and have not a climbers build but I absolutely love it. I think it's actually easier mentally than riding hard on the flats.. there's a very obvious reason why it hurts therefore you can get on with testing and challenging yourself - literally conquering that mountain. It can be very meditative. The goal is tangible and the rewards are endless.
Fark, get me back there.
My buddy has bailed on me for next year, I need a travel partner.
Would have to say that Alpe D'Huez is a fantastic climb. Whilst not overly difficult it's no walk in the park either. The best part is that you can feel the history seeping off the road - a real cycling mecca. Just thinking of the cycling royalty who've ridden that climb before you seems to give you an extra pair of legs. Plus the more you get into it, the faster you seem to get.
Mt Ventoux is just intimidating - a massive object in the middle of nowhere that just threatens from miles out. It starts off hard, eases off for quite a while, then progressively getts more difficult the higher up you get. It really turns the screw re: pain threshold; and just keeps on going. I've forgotten how hard it was - the sense of achievement of making it to the top takes care of that. The worst part is that once you hit the moonscape near the top you can still see how far you've got to go. When you've finished, is so cold and windy, and you're so high up, it's scary. Awesome descent though (beware of wind gusts and of freezing your balls off).
The best thing about climbing is that it's a real good judge of character: you're suffering on a climb, time has slowed to a standstill, sweat poring off you, one pedal stroke at a time only to realise you're going nowhere fast, all you can see is just more hill in front you, welcome to Painsville, population: you! Then comes the moment of truth: Do you give up? Are you a quitter? Or do you just tap it out, keep on tapping it out, dig deep to get your focus back on the job at hand and work to get some of that rhythm back. Nothing compares to hitting those depths then coming back out the other side.
I wish I were climbing right now... love the pain!!!!
I think Alpe D'Huez is tricky, but not hard. You can't really get tempo.
I think I timed around 41mins or something. We had it on a picture perfect day (like I said, check video above). Deux noisettes + croissant avec confiture, then ramping up the hill.
word
t
We got screwed last year by transfers and ended up parking in Maulacene, riding into Nyons, backward along the course (I'll never forget everyone looking at us like "What le hell is going on" and gendarmes trying to whistle us to stop) then ride with L'Etape to the top, then descend down into Maulacene and drive to St Bourg Maurice for S16. Crazy times.
The Marmotte sounds AWESOME. Thanks for the heads up.