Mt. Washington Hillclimb

[wisdom-doc]

Hi climbo, Read your post and I too am turning 50 (3 weeks) this year and am doing the climb this August. I'm new to the board after getting my first serotta this past spring; an Ottrott ST. The bike is fantastic and measures up to my expectations in every way. My bike is set up with the new DA7800 grp. and I know a BB/chainring change is needed. My other bike CADD5 DA9sp 53/39 could also be used depending on what would be the easiest and most sensible. Anyone have any suggestions? Is a std. triple30/42/52 adequate or should I go with a mtb. setup ie. 22/32/44. What about chain compatability, widths, I know I'll need a different lenghth. Any advice would be appreciated.

[slowgoing]

check the Tim Mtn web site forum for threads on gearing. For first timers, you should have at least a 1:1 ratio, and that's if you're in shape and not heavy. Better safe than sorry.

[Climb01742]

wisdom-doc...as i've never climbed washington myself, any advice i might give on gearing would be just a guess...checking their site is a good idea.

after the climb this year, would you post a report? there's nothing like first hand experience. and good luck!!!!

[Ahneida Ride]

Call Rick/Pam Trainer, Mountain Cycology , Ludlow Vt.

Rick and his wife Pam are Mt. Washington specialists. Rick
holds or used to hold the Masters Record. Pam did it last year
in about 75+ minutes. Rick is doing it this year.

Rick's advise is to go triple and start out slow. For a good partice run,
try the Okemo Mt. access Road in Vt. This run will tell ya what type of
shape you are in. It's 4.2 Miles straight up. Rick practices on this ascent.
My goal is to do Okemo in 60 Minutes. Rick destroys Okemo in 30.

The other run of note is Ascutney in Vt. also about 20 minutes from Okemo.

Rick's # is

MOUNTAIN CYCOLOGY
5 Lamere Sq.
Ludlow, VT 05149
(802) 228-2722

I'm sure that Rick and Pam can offer Ton's of advise. They are the best.

Best Regards