Just saw this and was impressed at the logic...
https://cyclingtips.com/2020/08/6-2-kg-three-gears-and-cut-off-drops-the-bike-used-for-the-everesting-record/
Can see a few further grams he could lose but that's impressive going.
Fairly normal for hill climb bikes to be stripped to the minimum, saddles drilled full of holes etc
His route choice (steeper but shorter), clothing, gearing, all of it is impressive. I'd still like to see a single speed attempt. I reckon that could be a step too far.
Interview with him here:
couple of good podcasts here including an interview with Ronan from Josh Poertner of Silca
Do you have to use the same stretch of road for each ascent? If there's a valley with a decent profile each side, you start at the top, ride down and use momentum for part of the climb up the other side and repeat? There's also be less turn arounds so less time lost?
Do you have to use the same stretch of road for each ascent?
Yes
I’d still like to see a single speed attempt. I reckon that could be a step too far.
I could see it working. If the (section of) hill you're using has a set pitch then pick the gear you need and you'll freewheel back down anyway. However, if you start to crack.....
Anyone done the maths on how much time the weight savings gave him?
"I’d still like to see a single speed attempt. I reckon that could be a step too far."
It's been done on a fixie....
https://cyclingtips.com/2020/05/everesting-on-a-fixie-with-a-hormone-headwind/
That was a good read and reminded me of the extra challenges Some people face in sporting trials. I did mean a record attempt though.
surely he could have got away with just a front brake and 1 shifter ?
I did mean a record attempt though.
I doubt you'd get the overall record on SS but obviously an "SS Record" could / should(?) exist. If you picked the hill carefully, something of fairly constant gradient that also didn't require too much pedalling on the descent, there's no reason why it couldn't be done.
I imagine the first few ascents would feel too easy, spinning a gear and then the last few ascents would probably feel awful, grinding a gear but that's down to pacing.
I also liked his 1st interview with Lanterne Rouge, where I think he said something along the lines of..
My bike and personal preparation was limited by the time and budget availible to me, which wasn't much :). There are few further things I could do, but I'll keep those to myself if you don't mind, incase I ever want to try again
Do you have to use the same stretch of road for each ascent?
Yes
Interesting that there are rules really. I mean it's only a game. A bit like darts.
I understood that you could ride up and down the same hill or mountain from both sides if you want to. I seem to recall that the first time it was done it was done that way. Of course that might have changed. I know someone who's attempting it on Firle Beacon in September.
surely he could have got away with just a front brake and 1 shifter ?
If riding on public road I suppose he legally requires 2 brakes