No one cared about their 'aero' position or how many grams their pedals weighed. Biked made out of steel and aluminum were the norm and not a single kid knew what carbon fiber was. Don't get me started on helmets; I never wore mine until I went over the handle bars in the sixth grade.
The bike can be the most intimidating portion of a triathlon. Typically, it is the longest portion in both distance and time. That's a lot of time to think about nothing but the air blowing around your ears, the salt off the ocean hitting your skin or that bug you just swallowed. All that time on your bike can leads to a certain numbness that most riders wish to do without.
My first bike when I started triathlons in my current one. It's a 2009 Jamis Xenith T1 Triathlon/TT bike. Some of you may wonder why I would spend so much on a full carbon fiber bike for a sport I was just getting in to. Well, it turns out that one of my college roommates, David, was good friends with a bike store owner and I was able to get the bike for a fraction of the asking price. It pays to know people.
My first ride was awkward and slow. I don't think I went more than 5 miles before I was ready to get off and walk. I kept at it and eventually learned to love being on the bike. With adjustments made to the bike, my form and my workouts, I became extremely comfortable in my aero position. This is very evident today because of the tan lines on my back that stop halfway over the shoulder from my last race. The life guards at the pool had a good life at my expense.
There are few tips I have in regards to biking. First off, enjoy it. Whether you're on a group ride or tearing up country highways, biking is a great time to reflect and relax. Second, wear a helmet. Remember me mentioning I went over the handle bars in the sixth grade? Lucky for me I didn't bust my head wide open. I did learn a good lesson though. Third, there is no need to purchase a brand new, state-of-the-art bike for training or racing. Yes, it would have all the bells and whistles but most people can't afford to do this. However, these bike can be found for relatively cheap on craigslist sometimes. Look into bikes that are a few years old too. Fourth, your bike legs will not come easy. You just don't hop on your bike and ride 56 or 112 miles. One must concentrate of form, put in saddle time and push their weekly volume.
I love my bike; I do. I recently upgraded my saddle to a ISM Adamo Racing II. It's made a huge difference in my comfort level on longer rides and causes no numbness. I train on Easton Vista SL wheels and will have a custom carbon fiber wheels by the end of the month. My bike uses SRAM Force components. And finally, I have a Rudy Project Zuma helmet.
It's not the most expensive but I have enjoyed all of my rides with it. Here's to many more!
Today's Workout:
- Bike:
- 45 Mins, flat/rolling course, HR Zone 1-2, easy on pedals
- Results:
- Trainer ride
- 25 mins, 10-14 mph
- 10 mins, 16-20 mph
- 10 mins, 12-14 mph
- Avg, Speed: 13.0 mph Distance: 9.87 miles
- Reflection:
- Overall the ride was good. I was in aero for about 30 mins and was quite comfortable. The legs felt good and the hips were loose. A solid easy session for a build-up week.
That's all for today. Happy training!
Drew
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