Cassette for BSLT 70.3

Ummm, having never done it this is going to be totally subjective. But without training for hills I would say that a 12 - 25 at least is in order with a 39 inner. Looks like fun!! :eek:

Forgot to add I have a 53/39T in front

Forget the hills... they are short and a bit steep at times... BUT, it will most likely be the wind that will be tough...see those long flat sections that make up most of the diagram... add steady 10-15 mph winds gusts a common aspect of the ride on the flats.... hills... pfft... ride stiff winds and you'll soon wish you had hills.

Oh yea... I might mention...

For the past few years, the weather has been exceptionally cooler and less wind than normal... so, that means the odds are that the heat will strike again... if so, you might want to put your bike on a trainer in your oven preheated kitchen... with your bike facing the oven... and, breath in deep as you ride.... well, that might give you a feeling of what the heat can be like...

As for gearing... a 11-23 will work so long as you know how to use them... if in doubt, you can use a 12-25... but, a 12-27 isn't necessary except that real bear of steap hill in the last few miles before the transition area (see, #15 - it's a sneaky little sucker incombination with grade #13 at the tell end of a long ride)... yea... that's going to hurt with a 11-23... BUT, that's the only time I can think of that a 12-27 might even be considered as an option. A reasonable MOP to front-BOP'er can do the ride with an 11-23, but if in doubt go with a 12-25 for a bale out option.

BTW, what's your front tooth count?

Overall it is a good course that is challenging but with high winds and heat... it can be more than just challenging.

FWIW Joe Moya

e-PS - just saw your second post... 39-11-23 (average strength biker) or a 39-12-25 (for a weak biker or one with knee problems) should work fine.



Edited by Joe M 2006-03-14 3:38 PM

Perfect place for a 11/23 in the back and a 50/36 compact crank up front. Have the best of both worlds and never worry about having gears for the hills again. All of which will keep your cadence up and save your legs alot for the run.

Check here:

http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/techctr/gearing.html

Edited by Nob 2006-03-14 4:58 PM

I appreciate the feedback. I think I'm going to go with the 12-25.
And it's a lot cheaper than switching to a compact crank

-Seb