Alpe d'Huez, Col de la Madaleine etc.

[simonfrench]

I'm planning to cycle up some of the Alpine climbs this summer. I imagine my lowest gear of 39f 24r might not be enough for a 'medium group club run' sort of rider to get up soem of these and be able to function the next day. What do you think?

Any advice on adapting my Cannodale R400 to suit? (buying new bike with triple not an option) I have at least got a long travel rear deurailler (sp) fitted so could go up some more on the cassette?

Advice gratefully received.

[Elliot M]

no idea if it will be the right ratios, but if shimano you can put an MTB cassette on, they go up to 34t. you probably want to check that the derailleur will handle this first!

[Brett P]

Pantani always said 'climbers who use 25 aren't real climbers'

Sod that, i'd get a tripple front set !!!

[Richard M]

I wouldn't advise using a 24 on the back. I've riden alot of the Tour de France climbs using 39-26. Depending on weather and the actual climb this is okay but seeing as both Campag and Shimano produce a 28 there's no harm in getting one if you're not going to go for a triple.

My only other advice is to get on a turbo trainer and practice 'cycling up hills' at 6-8mph in bottom gear for one hour!

[Gavin]

In my younger days I went through the alps with panniers front and back. I had a triple and used something like a 24-24 to go up most things. I think the advice of a 39-28 is sensible because man do these mountains just keep going on and and on ..... At least the mile markers tell you how far to go and your current height.

Have fun !

[simonfrench]

Cheers all - sounds like I'm off to get a 28 next month .... thanks

[ricadus]

Campagnolo make a 13-29 cassette for their 10 speed groupset, with, I think, the lower gear sprockets being 29, 26, 23...

Most club riders doing cols day after day would be fine with a 26, but the 29 is good insurance if you happen to be too ambitious with a route and do 1 col too many, esp if the weather turns cold/hot & your tired.

[Snoop Doug]

Okely Doke

Never one to be afraid of announcing my ignorance.......

I've been contemplating going up Mont Ventoux - either this September or next Spring. These comments about gears and such like - I am guessing the numbers you peeps are referring to are numbers of teeth on a cog..?

Also - I guess a triple front ring thingie involves some jiggery pokery as it's wider than my current double ring set up.

Hoo boy - I bet yer thinking, he'll never make it if he dinnae know basics like that. Well, yer could be right but I fancy giving it a crack so please, someone either confirm I know nowt - or better still - I guessed right.

I won't make these alterations meself - methinks a trip tee Pearsons is in order - guess I just want tee know what tee say to the man...

Ta muchly