Savageman Bike Recommendation

That's hilly country out there. I'd definitely go 12-27, and if you like high cadences, consider a compact crank.

Let me be the first to welcome you to Hill Hell. For S&G I rode the course a couple weekends ago just to have an idea of what the race will be like in September. At mile 20 (the Wall) it starts to climb and it doesn't matter what the map says - you climb for the next 30 miles. My "easy" pace dropped from the 20's to the low teens. And I questioned my own dedication. I was even glad that none of my family know about my plans to do the race.

Now, that being said. It is a doable course; it's just tough. Everyone I've talked to says that all the people there are just trying to get through it - just like you will be. So gear as low as you can (compact or triple with a 27 would be great), grab as much of the free downhill speed and distance as you can find on the course, be prepared for the <4mph (turn off the auto pause on your GPS) crawl up the 8 major "hills", and be okay with stepping off the bike when your thighs scream in agony - remember there is still a pretty gnarly run to go.

I know it's not a pretty picture I write. But it's beautiful countryside, a great cause, and will be a heck of a good time for all. Perhaps you are a super hill monster - if so, this will be your race. If not, I'll be there with you to struggle, wheeze, and lend support through every excruciating climb.

Let's all grab a beer at the finish line and a picture for the site!

I just like watching the you tube clips of people going up the westernport wall... the road looks really bad in spots, but I get psyched watching everyone on the sides cheering for the people going up..


Good Luck to everyone doing that race.

i have respect for anyone who attempts that race!

SM was my first HIM.

it was .... rough ! beautiful though, and a well put on race.

good luck to all racing !

I think I have decided to take the old road bike out of retirement for this one. It has a triple chainring which should come in handy for the savage climbs. I took it out today and it felt good. I don't figure I'll lose much by leaving the aerobars at home for this race.

is the race where you get some special reward/award for climbing one of the "walls" without getting off and walking it?

Ok so I just looked a few videos and I would like to say good luck as well.  OMG

The number of tri bikes hitting the pavement is... impressive. Definitely a regular road bike course.

It is indeed.  Make it up the Westernport Wall and you get a brick in the road with your name on it.

http://tri-to-win-events.smugmug.com/keyword/y8-sw-3-rsm#615903860_Dmuuz

Edited by knyost 2009-08-17 6:30 PM