Love of Ultra Cycling: To Finish Is To Win

Two years later, I just ordered my second set - this time for Disc Brake. As estimated by Light Bicycle, I got the wheelset on the scheduled date, opened the package, and started checking the weight - only 1368 grams, even 11 grams lighter than the claimed weight.

I couldn't wait to test these lightweight wheels.

I installed Continental GP4000 28C tires, pumped them with 6 bars (87psi), and made a tiny test ride of 60 km. It was my first time on such wide rims (32mm external width) and I was surprised about the feel - light, agile, but stiff enough.

The 28mm clinchers feel close to the 25mm - but with the benefit of being comfier. Comfort is important when riding long-distance and ultra-cycling events, where 20 to 48 hours nonstop in the saddle is usual.

The next ride is endurance training - 6 to 8 hours in the saddle - 200 km, 3200m of climbing. The wheels work well and will be my new racing wheels!

So why take on ultra-cycling events you may ask?

I don’t ride to win, but to finish. This discipline is all about exploring my personal limits - How long can I keep on going? How many meters can I climb?

Having concrete goals gets me motivated for the daily training session. These long rides, in Zone 2 endurance, enable me to burn fat and enjoy the view and landscapes.

Life can’t be better than that - 10,000 to 12,000 km a year, being outdoors.

What does ultra-cycling require of you as a cyclist?

1. Motivation: You need to know WHY - why you’re exploring your own limits. There will be a time during the event when you ask yourselves "why am I doing this?" My tip is that you need to know the answer. It doesn't matter what it is, but you need to find one.

2. Energy Management: Keep track of energy used and added. You can ride as fast as a Pro, but without energy management, it is over after 8-12 hours.

3. Equipment: Speed, aerodynamics, and lightweight isn't everything. Your equipment should be trimmed for speed and comfort - comfort for you as a rider.

4. Team: Some events require support from team cars for nutrition, navigation, and mechanical support.

In conclusion, I would say that ultra-cycling is 60% mindset, 15% physical capabilities, and the rest is team and equipment.

My next goal is to improve my Finisher Time in the nonstop race Tortour Ultra solo - non-drafting 1,000 kilometers including 14,000 meters of altitude. Both of these lightweight wheelsets will be a part of my equipment.

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COMMENTS

Robert 2020/06/11

Crazy Guy, but i like to cycle with him! Awesome Pics but this is made by nature "No one can copy the Alps" :)

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Andreas 2020/05/29

great story and awesome pics!

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