A few questions:

[sperminator]

1) Has anyone used the E3 Curve Carbon OS Handlebar? Performance has them for about 149 in the store in corona. Im thinking about getting a pair before summer is over.

2) Is VS tv channel the only tv channel that is going to be broadcasting the TDF?

Another question i have is what would be the best way to train for a comfortable successful century ride? I understand that ill be tired as hell but I would still like to be able to get up and get a beer or use the bathroom and what not after the ride is over. any ideas?

I know my questions are all over the place but i was just wondering.

[mtnbikej]

Training for a century is all about time in the saddle. Start small and work your way up. Each week start upping the miles. Start with a light steady pace and increase it over time.

VS. does the day to day TDF telecast.....CBS usually does a Sunday recap of the week.

[xhuskr]

which century? will it have lots of hills? As mtnbikj says..it's about saddle time. Get used to 5-8 hours in the saddle depending on fitness, route... I'm thinking of doing the century in the Bike MS event...I know all the hills are at the end, so for now, I'm just getting used to being comfortable in the saddle for the first 60-70 miles, then I'll start adding hills near the end...but that's just me. Either way..good luck!

[heith]

1. The carbon curve is fine but some people don't like the flat part after a while.
2. verses- yes but they will allow you to watch it free on the NET from what I hear.
3. If you can do 40 miles on a mtb bike you will have nothing to worry about on your century. For your first century just take it easy and stay below 80% of max heart rate. Not to low or you'll be out there all day. Oh and jump on someones wheel every chance you get and try and help each other. Try and stay in a group too. Don't take breaks longer then 10 minutes and don't eat a lot on those breaks either.

[vlad]

1. Try the FSA K-Wing Compact Bend Handlebar. Also carbon, but the compact bend is more useful that the flat section of the bar you suggested.

2. Versus is where you'll want to watch the TdF. Full coverage, summaries, etc.

3. Put in base miles and slowly over time increase the distance. Also try to find some local group rides and hang with them.

[sperminator]

I dont have an exact century in mind but i would like to get one or two in before the summer is over. they dont need to be anything special maybe just a few friends and the road. thanks for the help.


Also I dont get the vs channel and Dish Network does not allow one channel add ons ill have to up grade my package for like $120 a month for a min of 6 months. looks like ill be watching it from the computer again just like last year.

[vlad]

Not sure if it will be running this year, but you might wantto try the Tour de Foothills. Its a great race and you do a metric century (100 kilometers or about 60+ miles). Starts and ends in Upland. www.tourdefoothills.com

Its on November 14th this year.

Correction - its not race - its a ride.

[heith]

A nice group ride to get you ready for a century is the "COW" ride in Chino. It starts at the Incycle on Mountain and the 60 freeway every Saturday at 8:00 sharp. It has a full and half ride options(30m or 70m) and is a no drop ride. It's a training ride so show up in shape, it does get moving pretty fast sometimes but they have plenty of regroup points to get back on the wheel if you are a slower rider. It's pretty flat(2,300ft gain over 70m) so it's not going to help you get ready for a hilly century but it's a start and a good training ride if you want to get up front and take some pulls.

[supralight]

ive heard that properly fitting aerobars or clip on extensions will help with the long saddle times you are expecting. also make sure you get a good bike fit! go to a shop and make sure everything is in the best anatomical position for you. something that might be a little uncomfortable at 20-25 miles may prove to be hell on mile 85-90.

also, dont rely too much on the bike computer. make it fun and interesting. pick a destination thats ~45-50 miles away and ride there and back.
but what do i know, ive never ridden a century b4
on the TDF is universal sports going to do any coverage like the giro? i didnt mind their coverage so long as it was on mute.

[Byron B]

you can watch the race online at http://www.steephill.tv/tour-de-france/

You should also look into doing the MS Century Ride http://www.biketofinishms.com/faf/ho...?ievent=304333

[xhuskr]

Originally Posted by Byron B

You should also look into doing the MS Century Ride http://www.biketofinishms.com/faf/ho...?ievent=304333

I agree...as of now I plan on doing the century route..unless things change. It's a good century with most of the climbing after mile 70 or so...BUT...you get to go past Pizza Port in Solana Beach for a quick pint and slice of beer...if you want.