Alright, so I rode the single speed bike for the first time to work. Really, it's the first time I've ridden it anywhere that didn't have Oli on the back.
So the trip to work is actually kind of a duzy. It rolls out of my house on a nice flat level road which within a couple of blocks turns to a slightly upward grade. Then after the 3rd block, we go shooting up into the air for the next mile. I believe it's about a 8 or 9 (maybe steaper) percent grade. My single speed is set up with a 32x16 right now. It was the first time that I actually thought I was going to throw up on a bike. I never stopped nor did I get off and push. I kept pushing up and up until I hit Skyline Drive.
At that point there is about 100 yards of relatively flat grade before another steep climb for about 100 yards, then rinse and repeat.
Once I reached the service road it's all a slight downhill. I was maybe going 12 mph at the finish.
It was a good experience and I can see how riding a single speed bike can really strengthen your legs. I really had to push far more than I do on my geared bikes. Now I'm intreagued enough where I may take it out on a trail tomorrow to see what that's like.
I would like to change the gearing a bit to make it a bit more Black Hills friendly. I've heard of most people riding a 32x18 and some even a 32x20. I think the 32x18 sounds nice.
2 comments:
I think I would need a 32x32 if they made it :)
Riding a single speed commuting to work and back everyday has dramatically increased my hill climbing ability.
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