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This event is not suitable for Chain Store bicycles, they
will not last the distance without annoying breakdowns.
The Rail Trail has a maximum slope/gradient of just 3%, (3M
in 100M), the same as Kaikorai Valley Road, Dunedin.
The full length of the Rail Trail can be cycled end to end
within 10 hours, by any competent cyclist.
There is nothing difficult or technical in cycling the Rail
Trail.
Getting off your bike to open/close gates, walking through
tunnels, will give your backside some relief throughout the
ride.
A Cut lunch at Ranfurly is designed to give you a rest
midway through the ride.
There will be no time deductions for your lunch stop. This
event is NOT a race.
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Instead of thinking the ride as one long distance ride, try
looking at it another way.
Think of it as four legs of 40km, or two of 80km. You will
find this more manageable.
Learn to cycle 40km distances a time. It might take you two
hours initially, but with practice you should be able to
lower it down to about 90min. Aim to ride this distance once
a week, you will quickly get used to the distance.
Two pairs of cycling shorts coupled with some anti-chafing
cream work best for me. Set the saddle position correctly,
most cycling books will tell you how to do this, or you will
end up with either a sore back or knees. I set the alarm on
my watch so I remember to eat every 30-45 minutes. This is
most important, if like me, you plan to ride the complete
distance. - Martin (Team Wyatt & Wilson Print)
Knobby tyres create a lot of windage, consider using semi or
full slicks instead. Carry two spare tubes - preferably new
out the store. Rubber tubes perish in time, yes even in
their boxes. Learn how to repair a puncture, change a tube,
well before the ride.
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You can expect to expend around 4-5000 calories, so you need
to eat while on the move. Find out what food suits your
stomach, BEFORE you take on the Rail Trail. Suggested food
to take, Raisins, Dates, Bananas, Museli Bars, Power Bars,
Gels etc.
Drink plenty of fluid, 500ml per hour is about right. Drink
Stations will have a very weak lemon cordial drink
available.
Consider buying a Heart Rate Monitor, relatively cheap these
days. Learn to use the monitor and train between 60-70% of
you maximum heart rate. Maximum Heart Rate is popularly
defined as 220 - Your age, e.g a 50yr old 200-50 = 170bpm |
