Which bike?

[neilb]

Hi Everyone

Hope you don't mind me asking but is it ok for me to ride my fixie (it has brakes and normal dropped h'bars) on the CR tomorrow? I normally ride with the 17 group.

If not, I'll bring my normal road bike.

Could someone advise?

Many thanks

Neil

[Grahame]

There are several people who ride fixed over the winter on the clubrun (Mr Green for example). They usually go out with one of the 18mph or 17mph groups so you should be fine.

Might I suggest that you mention the fact that you are on a fixed wheel to the VC leading the group so allowances can be made for you charging at the hills (so you can keep on top of the gear) and others restrained from chasing you down or breaking their rhythm in reaction.

[Andrew G]

Fixed is fine on the CR Neil, be good to see another one join us. Mike and I both ride fixed (about 68 inch) in a steady / Gentleman's 18, Brian was also out on his last week. The key is to be in a steady paced group.

My tips would be on your first CR on fixed to stay towards the front of your group more then you might normally to dictate the pace to keep it steady (drafting is of less benefit on fixed anyway). When you rotate off the front leave a slightly bigger gap than normal so you can adjust your pace and brake less suddenly if people slow/stop in front. You can also ride in the right hand line more so that you have a bit more space to move in to if the pace slows a bit suddenly and catches you out.

Probably teaching granny to suck eggs there .

As Grahame says let the group VC know you're on fixed at CSS and don't be afraid to shout out yourself if people are braking a bit suddenly for you.

You'll certainly get to test your leg speed on the drop down just after Rusper .

I'll be going back via Box Hill, if you fancy that as well give me a shout at the cafe as in winter it's often only the fast guys who go via Box and you won't keep up with them on one gear .

[neilb]

Thanks, guys, really appreciate your thoughts.

I'll give it a go and if feeling in reasonable nick might try Box Hill but I know you guys are much faster than me!

See you in the morning.

Cheers

Neil