Cyclocross Season Wrap Up
November 21st, 2008 |Still kind of sad that the season is over with. I used this season to learn (or re-learn what I forgot from 11 years ago) the sport. Here is what I need to remember for next year:
- The start is important if you are a contender for the top placings, otherwise it does not really matter much at all.
- Off bike form, as in running fitness, can make a tremendous difference, especially late in the race.
- Getting over the barriers quickly and smoothly can make a big difference at crunch time. I found it easy to get or close a gap on someone who was not so quick and/or smooth.
- Low tire pressure allows for much more control but too low a pressure results in rolling the tire off the rim. I ran about 2.38 atmospheres all season, might have to bump up to 2.72 atmospheres for next season, or get with the tubulars.
- Cross specific training needs to start earlier in the summer, and I am not just talking about running. My plan is to continue to run over the winter and all next spring and summer. Cross specific workouts on the bike start for me in July. For those who don’t race road on weekends you should think about joining me for an early morning cross workout.
- Long sleeve skinsuits make me look fatter than I really am. Black skinsuits makes me look thinner than I really am.
- Problems are unavoidable. It’s important to stay calm during the race, don’t obsess about the problems and instead focus on speed and smoothness.
- Being familiar with the course before the start is critical. I went off course in at least two races because I did not have the course dialed before the start. I need to spend more time on course during warm up and really pay attention to where it goes.
- Figure out the correct technique for each specific part of the course and use it every lap. Run or ride, what line to take in the corners, etc. Have a plan for the course and follow it.
2008 was an experiment and an educational experience. 2009 will be more serious. Watch out Wah, you’re right, I’m hooked.
3 Responses to “Cyclocross Season Wrap Up”
… July?
As a Vikings fan, I’ll put it in the NFL analogy that it would be a drag to hear Brad Childress already talking about the draft, and I feel the same way about escalations in the training schedule wars. The current racing season may as well be over if it’s already training season for the next.
Hey, anyone can start training when ever they want. I don’t make the rules.
rock on bro