Cassette size for the Marmotte

cjcp

Rutlandblue wrote:

if you're fit

This is my biggest concern atm! Can't seem to get enough miles in.

FransJacques

Sheitmano is 130mm BCD which means you can run the 38 - get one - the TA ones are £20 cheap. If you run Campy get their 12-29 cassette as 39 is the smallest their 135mm spider will allow you to run. If you run Shimano, you could forget the 11-28 and buy a 12-27, take out the 13 or 14 cog and buy one of these: http://www.parker-international.co.uk/3 ... ocket.html Best damn £12 you'll ever spend.

You'll need another 10 speed spacer between the 27 and the 30 but that's it. It's a tight fit depending on your freehub width but 38-30 is the ultimate bail out gear. I use it for those changes in grade from a nice steady 9 or 10% to 12% and higher which is when my personal power:weight ratio goes off a cliff.

On the downhills, the smartest thing you can do for longevity is to pedal *lightly* for the first few minutes while you eat so the lactic acid doesn't pool in your legs. Unless you're chasing a break with Contador in it, above 55-60 kph when marginal speed gain to energy expense nose-dives just coast and get your heart rate down. My experience of 10+ mountainous Grand Trophee events is just recover recover recover. For me getting my heart down on the descents really adds to freshness (or lack of deadness) on the Ad'H climb.

note: You might need to adjust the b-screw (if it's still called that) to keep the top pulley wheel off the 30T cog.

mallinov

I lived in the Alps for 8 years - I would highly recomend you take an ipod. Don't worry about being anti social as no-one talks on the climbs and it'll take your mind off the pain!!

Champy79

Mallinov
I think I might almost spend the same time deciding which playlist to create for uphill, downhill, pain, suffering and finishing as I do which cassette to buy.