swapping cassettes??

[Barb, USA]

Ladies, Ladies, Ladies,

We are not wimps - ever! The important thing is that we get up the hill without or with walking. Please, the psychologist in me says that calling yourself a wimp - even in jest - can cause you to falter on a hill.

Last year, at 57, I got my first road bike (this is after 5 or 6 years of serious cycling). First my husband sortof laughed. I told you about that. But then he really got enthusiastic when he considered the possibilities. The pro at the bikeshop smirked but tended to me anyway. My best choice was a Giant with only two chain rings. I immediately asked if I could get a triple, and he said yes, but when I went to pick up the bike, the third was third, but the sprockets were still not low enough (25).

OK, I'd try it. Well it was just too hard to get up the hills I already knew I could get up with my touring bike. Back to the shop.

I, too, can confirm it makes all the difference in the world. My knees crackle and pop going up and down stairs.

"Wimpy" hubby Goetz has 3 chain rings. He cycles 6000 miles per year. His biggest thrill is going up Mt Ventoux of Tour de France fame (four times last year). He's done it with 2 rings and was 20 minutes slower than with his triple . Now he brags that he's only one hour behind Armstrong. He does the Giro delle Dolomiti now in the summer and is going to switch to a 27 sprocket.

I've gone 3/4 of the way up Ventoux, to Chalet Renard.

Another thing. Who invented this term "granny gear"? Frankly, as a granny (ask me about my grandchildren) I find it demeaning. How about "go-go gear" or "spinning gear".

Remember, Ladies, we are women, we are strong, we are invincible.

Barb

[spazzdog]

This is an exerpt from the note I sent Chris (the mechanic) in CA.

Preface it with the fact that on my old crankset, I stood on every incline on this route for at least 1/2.

"I took the bike for a quick 10 miles around my neighborhood... did 4 laps of a 1.5 mile course. It has a couple of 200 meter flats, 2 x 2-300 meter climbs (est. 8%) then, as I get toward my house 3 very short (25 meters) but increasing incline 10%-18% with double S-turn.

I was able to stay seated and spin the entire route except for the last bump up in incline on the last hill. But for 25 meters, I'll stand.

Additionally, on the downhill (gradual) between the 2 longer climbs I was able to spin with a bit of resistance (85-90 rpms) to hit 26 mph and then hold it just at 20 mph in a lower spinning gear going uphill."

Needless to say grrls, I'm liking the new setup. Now if the weather would only hold.

spazz

[Barb, USA]

spazz,

It's great you're having such a good time training. Isn't that what it's all about. I envy you. It's raining here.

Barb