The Surly Road Cycling Thread

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

RAGBRAI today. It was College Jersey day. I saw the entire Big 12 represented, as well as a fuck ton of Aggy. There was so much Aggy, it was probably 3rd most popular jersey after us and Iowa. Lotta beer, heat, wind, and pork.

(that’s a pack of Native Spirits in his waist band)


(Adult woman dressed as a baby)

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

*American Spirits

[G650 14270]

Some of these motherfuckers need to bike a few hundred more miles.

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

Last day

My buddy went full Lizard King.



Accurate sign is accurate.


Recycling wins.

Lizard King purifying himself in the Mississippi

[G650 14270]

On 7/16/2019 at 11:27 PM, Knoxtnhorn said:

Damn dude.  That's pretty impressive.  Please check back and let us (me) know how that went.  

So got it done(sort of). Two of the guys in our four man group really didn't think the 100 miler was in their capability, so we downgraded to the metric century. Which I wasn't totally upset about really, as I can pretty much go full gas over 100k with the added bonus of not having to be super mindful about eating as well. It had some decent climbing too, about 6500'. Well, turns out 100k was a bridge too far for those two as well. Luckily the guy who's place we were staying at basically came out and tooled around in our vicinity and got to be the support vehicle and pick them up as they dropped.

The one other guy with me did make it to the end, but it was all he could do to get over last climb. I think this is partly my fault though as I turned up the wick a little after the second guy fell by the wayside.

I felt great, HR was firmly in the tempo zone on the last climb, and would have gotten the imperial century done without too much discomfort. So a little bittersweet, but satisfactory as a training step towards France next year.

[G650 14270]

This climb in the middle was a motherfucker though. Average 7.9%, but the top half was 10%+ and the last 500 meters were 15% hitting 19% max.

 

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

12 minutes ago, G650 said:

This climb in the middle was a motherfucker though. Average 7.9%, but the top half was 10%+ and the last 500 meters were 15% hitting 19% max.

 

Jesus Christ.

[G650 14270]

3 minutes ago, Al_4_ISU said:

Jesus Christ.

It sucked ass. And my biggest cog is a 30.

I fucked up and was riding threshold for the section before the final ramp. Which meant by the time I had to go to 130% of threshold I was already sucking wind.

[CycleTex87 2979]

4 hours ago, G650 said:

This climb in the middle was a motherfucker though. Average 7.9%, but the top half was 10%+ and the last 500 meters were 15% hitting 19% max.

 

The Hillary Step. 

[Knoxtnhorn 6064]

That's brutal.  I did a 2.5 mile climb in the Smokies once.  It was a steady 8-9% for 2 miles then hit a patch of 25% for about 100 feet.  Thought I was going to die.  Going down was fun, though.

It wasn't on the back of or during a metric by any means.

Edited August 5, 2019 by Knoxtnhorn

[G650 14270]

Oof, that's brutal.

[Braff Zacklin 13634]

Savages, all of you.

[G650 14270]

Idiots probably more accurate, but I'll go with it.

[Loco 3753]

On 8/5/2019 at 3:45 PM, G650 said:

This climb in the middle was a motherfucker though. Average 7.9%, but the top half was 10%+ and the last 500 meters were 15% hitting 19% max.

 

That graph tells me one thing...  you rode it backwards.

[G650 14270]

I wish I was that intelligent 

[TwiceHorn 31511]

On 7/27/2019 at 9:53 AM, G650 said:

Some of these motherfuckers need to bike a few hundred more miles.

It disturbs me that a lot of mountain bikers, some of whom are pretty strong riders, are heftychonks.

[Txzen 498]

At some point I should write something about this France trip I just completed, but a few weeks ago I bagged this big boy and a few others. Out and back it was 42 miles, 7400' of climbing with so, so much of it an unrelenting 8-9% at altitude. 

 

imgur

/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

 

[G650 14270]

One of the queens of the Alps.

[52-80 19205]

22 hours ago, TwiceHorn said:

It disturbs me that a lot of mountain bikers, some of whom are pretty strong riders, are heftychonks.

mtb is more quick and frequent max power bursts than sustained effort so those chonkers make out fine

[G650 14270]

@52-80, you need to get ready for the Pyrenees death ride next July. Will have a support vehicle so you can pull the plug at any point.

One of the guys wife was born in Germany, so they plan on hitting there before France and doing a little riding.

[52-80 19205]

8 minutes ago, G650 said:

@52-80, you need to get ready for the Pyrenees death ride next July. Will have a support vehicle so you can pull the plug at any point.

One of the guys wife was born in Germany, so they plan on hitting there before France and doing a little riding.

I'm down for anything that involves Spain.  Although I'd need to hit the turbo trainer hard over the winter.

[G650 14270]

Just now, 52-80 said:

Although I'd need to hit the turbo trainer hard over the winter.

Indeed. Me too.

[Txzen 498]

Love the Pyrenees - more so than the Alps, frankly. I've taken a few trips there : Hautacam, Solour-Aubisque, Luz Ardiden, Tourmalet, Spandelles, Cirque de Troumouse, Hourquette d'Ancizan/Aspin, Pla d'Adet, Plateau de Beille...when I list them out, I'm even impressed. Just note that none of them were done with any particular panache. Some are definitely more inspiring than others. Frankly it's the lesser known routes - like the Cirque Troumouse - which are really incredible. 

Edited August 8, 2019 by Txzen

[G650 14270]

38 minutes ago, Txzen said:

Frankly it's the lesser known routes - like the Cirque Troumouse - which are really incredible. 

This has been my experience as well. That said, I am pretty amped for the Ghisallo and Sormano next week.

 

You should join up for the Pyreneean escapade next July with us.

[Txzen 498]

Would love to hang in Como for a few weeks for a mixed cycling/food/whatever vacation. The area looks spectacular. 

Appreciate the Pyrenean offer - alas, I'm more in cyclotouriste mode these days. Old and slow, man. But happy to offer advice! Have stayed here a few times, though the original owner sold recently to another couple. From what I've seen, they've only improved it and I can't wait to go back. Hard to think of a better base of operations : Pyrenees Cycling Lodge

Edited August 8, 2019 by Txzen

[G650 14270]

1 hour ago, Txzen said:

cycling/food/whatever

Emphasis on the food/whatever part for sure.

[Braff Zacklin 13634]

On 8/8/2019 at 6:20 AM, 52-80 said:

mtb is more quick and frequent max power bursts than sustained effort so those chonkers make out fine

Not on the trails out West.

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

The annual Sweet Corn Days (Lime Springs, IA) ride. Riding bikes to burnt small town bars, eating deer and drinking cheap beer in the back of pick up trucks to the back drop of the wind swept plains of northern Iowa.

 

Inject that shit right into my veins.

 

[G650 14270]

That's badass

[Thetexashammer 1062]

Is that heaven?

[Al_4_ISU 12472]

That's badass

It’s pretty much the crew from my Thursday night rides + a few area natives that come home for Sweet Corn Days. We only do 30 miles, but it’s just a damn good time. The topography of central Howard County is quintessential Iowa (the first picture was taken at one of the last remaining patches of virgin prairie in the state), and the Togie Pub (Saratoga, IA) always makes sure the beer is cold.

[TwiceHorn 31511]

On 8/8/2019 at 7:20 AM, 52-80 said:

mtb is more quick and frequent max power bursts than sustained effort so those chonkers make out fine

Yeah, I know.  You'd think sufficient exercise of either type might avoid the hefty chonk.  I'm trying to be a fine boi.

[Goofyboy 3293]

Any of you guys ride out of Katy / Richmond area? I’m looking for a new group ride this fall.

[52-80 19205]

15 minutes ago, Goofyboy said:

Any of you guys ride out of Katy / Richmond area? I’m looking for a new group ride this fall.

all the oil company cycling clubs start from around that area.  if you have friends in the industry they can probably refer you

[G650 14270]

The Muro di Sormano. Jesus fuck.

[G650 14270]

[G650 14270]

 

 

 

 

 

[Patricio Swayze 17058]

I figured I test the waters here before putting up an ad in the for sale forum.  I am selling my Wabi Classic single speed, hopefully locally (Houston).  I have ads up on a couple of sites for $500, but I would do a Surly special for $450.  Complete bike, steel frame, in like new condition.  Maybe one of y'all or someone you know would be into it.  Size 52.

[52-80 19205]

my new office is in the sticks, has a shitty canteen, but an on-site gym with modern bikes, and a chill ass working schedule, so i can start a training regiment at a lunchtime.  so i got that going for me, which is nice.

 

and the terrain outside is lumpy

[G650 14270]

Jerk

[Captain Ron 12885]

Damn Swayze, that looks nice. If I wasn't rebuilding my road bike (oh and that whole living in Boston thing), I might pop for that.

 

That brings me to the question why I'm here. My old ride was a 2003 Fuji Roubaix. It served me very well for many years until last year when I was hit by a car. It wasn't bad, I was only clipped, but it caused me to lose my balance and hit a curb. I was ok, and so was my bike. Until a few weeks later when I snapped my drive side chainstay. A local shop was able to get a new frame for me and move my parts over no problem. So now I'm rocking out on a 2018 Fuji Roubaix 1.3:

 

The downside - I'm only rocking the gears from my 2003 Roubaix (105 3x9 yuck). Until now. I ordered a Shimano Ultegra groupset (2x11) for this guy and I'm about to set out on rebuilding this with some modern parts, EXCEPT ... my wheels are only compatible with 9 speeds. So it's time for a new wheelset. So I wanted to get some ideas, thoughts from everyone to see what you think, I'm down to 3 choices:

1. Mavic Ksyrium Elite UST - Tried and true, I was looking to get them with red hubs to match the bike. Big upside on these, Mavic throws in some tires. $512
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/mavic-ksyrium-elite-ust-wheelset-362865
Mavic - https://shop.mavic.com/en-us/ksyrium-elite-ust-rr1117.html#1028=3283

2. Hunt Race Aero Wide - British brand that I would need to order,  $450
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/hunt-race-aero-wide-wheels-358775
Hunt Race - https://www.huntbikewheels.com/products/hunt-race-season-aero-road-wheelset-1420g-28deep-22wide

3. Cero AR30 EVO - Another British brand $415
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/cero-ar30-evo-wheels-358770
Cero - https://www.cerowheels.com/cero-ar30-evo-wheelset-2036.html

Any of you guys used these wheels or anything similar? Looking for some advice.

[52-80 19205]

I chipped a piece of the freehub body installing a Cero wheelset on my gravel bike.  So fragile.  The Mavic uses proprietary spokes and are about the least aero wheels on the market.

[G650 14270]

17 hours ago, Captain Ron said:

Damn Swayze, that looks nice. If I wasn't rebuilding my road bike (oh and that whole living in Boston thing), I might pop for that.

 

That brings me to the question why I'm here. My old ride was a 2003 Fuji Roubaix. It served me very well for many years until last year when I was hit by a car. It wasn't bad, I was only clipped, but it caused me to lose my balance and hit a curb. I was ok, and so was my bike. Until a few weeks later when I snapped my drive side chainstay. A local shop was able to get a new frame for me and move my parts over no problem. So now I'm rocking out on a 2018 Fuji Roubaix 1.3:

 

The downside - I'm only rocking the gears from my 2003 Roubaix (105 3x9 yuck). Until now. I ordered a Shimano Ultegra groupset (2x11) for this guy and I'm about to set out on rebuilding this with some modern parts, EXCEPT ... my wheels are only compatible with 9 speeds. So it's time for a new wheelset. So I wanted to get some ideas, thoughts from everyone to see what you think, I'm down to 3 choices:

1. Mavic Ksyrium Elite UST - Tried and true, I was looking to get them with red hubs to match the bike. Big upside on these, Mavic throws in some tires. $512
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/mavic-ksyrium-elite-ust-wheelset-362865
Mavic - https://shop.mavic.com/en-us/ksyrium-elite-ust-rr1117.html#1028=3283

2. Hunt Race Aero Wide - British brand that I would need to order,  $450
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/hunt-race-aero-wide-wheels-358775
Hunt Race - https://www.huntbikewheels.com/products/hunt-race-season-aero-road-wheelset-1420g-28deep-22wide

3. Cero AR30 EVO - Another British brand $415
Review - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/editors-choice/cero-ar30-evo-wheels-358770
Cero - https://www.cerowheels.com/cero-ar30-evo-wheelset-2036.html

Any of you guys used these wheels or anything similar? Looking for some advice.

I had the Mavics. They do have proprietary spokes as @52-80 mentions and are not very aero. They are good in terms of durability and weight though. I had no complaints. 

 

Are you pretty set on 500 dollar budget? This is an area where a bit more money makes a big jump still, as opposed to the top end where you spend a grand more for minuscule gain.

[Captain Ron 12885]

This wasn't an upgrade I planned for, I am doing it more out of need. I am not dead set on $500, but I think I will need some justification (serious bang for buck) for more than that.

I would say:

• I am set on alloy wheels, not really making the jump to carbon yet
• Must be rim brakes, I already have the groupset with brakes , plus my frame isn't disc ready

Right now I am leaning Hunt over Mavic (and the Ceros are out). But convince me on other options.

[G650 14270]

4 minutes ago, Captain Ron said:

This wasn't an upgrade I planned for, I am doing it more out of need. I am not dead set on $500, but I think I will need some justification (serious bang for buck) for more than that.

I would say:

• I am set on alloy wheels, not really making the jump to carbon yet
• Must be rim brakes, I already have the groupset with brakes , plus my frame isn't disc ready

Right now I am leaning Hunt over Mavic (and the Ceros are out). But convince me on other options.

The HED Ardennes is the gold standard training rim. Competitive Cycling has the higher end SL for 750.00 right now. Sale might end today, not sure.

 

https://www.competitivecyclist.com/hed-ardennes-sl-plus-wheelset-clincher?skid=HED001W-BK-SHI&CMP_SKU=HED001W&MER=0406&CSPID=0914&mr:trackingCode=22AF0299-58D8-E411-AAA2-001B21BCB944&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=m&mr:adType=plaonline&mr:ad=302685667676&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:tid=pla-543192046231&mr:ploc=9008532&mr:iloc=&mr:store=&mr:filter=543192046231&CMP_ID=PLA_GMm014&CSPID=0914&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PLA&k_clickid=_k_EAIaIQobChMI2uK-ufeU5AIVhSaGCh07wAJAEAQYAiABEgJesvD_BwE_k_&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2uK-ufeU5AIVhSaGCh07wAJAEAQYAiABEgJesvD_BwE

[Txzen 498]

How much do you weigh, and what sort of riding do you do?

 

Another vote for HED rims, though I have a custom wheelset with the HED Belgiums, there are other options out there : https://www.coloradocyclist.com/dt-swiss-350-classic-custom-handbuilt-wheelset-with-hed-belgium-plus-rims-700c?gclid=CjwKCAjw1_PqBRBIEiwA71rmtaPJeVeFYDRpa9qeaOkkR60uNKGfGApxLWXCwDBtVEBrF7V9wc9WOxoCti0QAvD_BwE

...and : https://www.coloradocyclist.com/shimano-ultegra-6800-custom-handbuilt-wheelset-with-hed-belgium-c2-rims-700c

 

But I decided long ago not to go with flyweight wheelsets with too few spokes (and proprietary ones at that), after snapping a few rear spokes on a nice Campy Protons. I'm ~195lb, so...

Edited August 22, 2019 by Txzen

[Captain Ron 12885]

210 lbs, a mix of distance and climbing. New England gives you a wide range of topology.

Flats

 

And hills

 

I gotta admit, those HED Ardennes look pretty good. 

[52-80 19205]

12 hours ago, G650 said:

The HED Ardennes is the gold standard training rim. Competitive Cycling has the higher end SL for 750.00 right now. Sale might end today, not sure.

 

https://www.competitivecyclist.com/hed-ardennes-sl-plus-wheelset-clincher?skid=HED001W-BK-SHI&CMP_SKU=HED001W&MER=0406&CSPID=0914&mr:trackingCode=22AF0299-58D8-E411-AAA2-001B21BCB944&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=m&mr:adType=plaonline&mr:ad=302685667676&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:tid=pla-543192046231&mr:ploc=9008532&mr:iloc=&mr:store=&mr:filter=543192046231&CMP_ID=PLA_GMm014&CSPID=0914&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PLA&k_clickid=_k_EAIaIQobChMI2uK-ufeU5AIVhSaGCh07wAJAEAQYAiABEgJesvD_BwE_k_&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2uK-ufeU5AIVhSaGCh07wAJAEAQYAiABEgJesvD_BwE

Or HED Jet for #TreatingYoself.  Alloy braking surface but with aero profile.  Often on sale at CC

[Captain Ron 12885]

Yeah. That's quickly approaching W$-1+1. Just getting the Ardennes would be the treat. 

Btw - I put in about 1200-1500 miles a year on the road bike. I just don't have as much time for more (shit ton of commuting too). 

[G650 14270]

14 hours ago, Txzen said:

But I decided long ago not to go with flyweight wheelsets with too few spokes (and proprietary ones at that), after snapping a few rear spokes on a nice Campy Protons. I'm ~195lb, so...

Speaking of this, a buddy had a broken spoke on his 3T's, respoked them, and broke another in the second ride. He is about your weight. So I'd avoid 3T wheels.