It’s been just a little greater than two months since I completed the 206-mile (330-kilometer) endurance race often known as Soiled Kanza. The identify was becoming: soiled as a result of it was all on gravel roads; Kanza as a result of it came about within the state of Kansas. At practically 14 hours—13 hours and 38 minutes to be precise—it was one of many longest days I’ve ever had on a motorcycle. So how did I put together for it? That’s a trick query.
The reality is you’ll by no means be absolutely ready for a race like that. Who trains by using their bike for 12 hours straight? No person, proper? Irrespective of how onerous you prepare, long-distance bike races will all the time be difficult—that’s why we do them. Nonetheless, correctly making ready to one of the best of your potential could make all of the distinction. Right here’s what I like to recommend you do on your subsequent endurance race or journey:
Maintain A Regular Tempo
Let me inform you from my very own painful expertise: Beginning too quick is an absolute killer that may go away you paying a value (ache!) later within the race. Through the peak of my profession, I as soon as discovered myself amongst a gaggle of 25 riders main on the midway level of a race. However I had pushed too onerous, and earlier than I knew it I hit a wall (not actually, nevertheless it felt that manner!) that left me going at a snail’s tempo for the following 15 miles. Individuals may have walked quicker than I used to be using. Consider me, you don’t need that. In a long-distance biking occasion, it’s all about endurance (after which extra endurance) so choose a cushty tempo—and keep it up.
Hydrate and Gasoline
You’ve seemingly heard this earlier than, however I can’t drive house the purpose sufficient. Hydration is essential. For Soiled Kanza, I carried three massive water bottles. One had a sports activities drink (for a fast supply of carbs and vitality), one had mineral salts (to maintain my electrolytes balanced), and a 3rd had plain water. I additionally carried simply sufficient meals to make it between relaxation stops; there’s no purpose to hold extra.
Should you’re brief on assets or don’t have the help of a crew, contact the race to see if they are going to be offering relaxation stops with meals choices alongside the route, or in the event that they know of a service that may aid you refuel. Ask about bike help as properly. Some occasions have bike mechanics on website to assist with issues like flat tires and skipping gears.
Spend money on Correct Tools
One factor that helped for my latest race was the handlebar extensions (what triathletes use to make themselves extra aerodynamic) I put in on my bike. Whereas the aero component helped, I principally used it for consolation, to relaxation my arms and shoulders. In complete, I spent round three hours leaning on them, which helped immensely.
One other must-have piece of kit is a water-proof bag to hold some money, a bank card, an ID card, and your medical health insurance card. I additionally put some bathroom paper in there. Should you take any treatment, make sure you have got sufficient with you. Two different issues I all the time carry with me: an additional battery or vitality supply for my telephone and a bottle of chain lube. A dry, noisy chain could make you’re feeling anxious and kill your motivation.
Pack a Change Of Clothes
Relying on the climate and the way lengthy you’ll be using, it may be good to have an additional set of clothes to vary into on the midway level. Stash it in a light-weight backpack or small pack that attaches to your bike.
Know When to Relaxation
Don’t be shy about stopping. Whether or not it’s to catch your breath or take a fast photograph of the panorama, it’s greater than okay. After 10 hours on the bike throughout this yr’s Soiled Kanza, I discovered this uncommon area of inexperienced grass below a tree and laid down for 5 minutes. The break was a lot wanted and felt so good on my again, neck, and shoulders. Afterwards, I felt refreshed and able to forge onward.
