Keep a bit of distance from the rider in front so you can see a better line to pick, and don’t be afraid to shout at people that you’re to their left or right on climbs.
Be careful on some of these gutters, trying to hop from gutter to wet cobble is a skill set not to be underestimated. On some sectors there are gutters where people make a mad dash for a welcome bit of relief.
In the run up to the event it’s worthwhile doing some four to five minute efforts to replicate what you will have to do on the day. Sit further back and keep your pedalling strong and consistent. Basically, hit it fast! We’re not talking sprint fast, but high gearing and a solid effort over each section will help reduce the pneumatic drill effect. You’ve heard of Groad, well let’s talk about how to grind the Croad* (cobbled road). Ideally go for a spin the day before the event and test it on some of the cobbled climbs. At around 63kg I opted for 5bar (73psi) at the front and 5.5bar (80psi) at the back. Although in our recent bike testing session, which involved multiple loops of the Kwaremont and Paterberg (yeah we are self-masochists) the Vittoria Corsa G+ 25mm came out on top for it’s cobble hugging ability. I rode 28mm Continental Grand Prix Four Seasons which saw me through the day puncture free. Now let’s talk tyres: it’s no time for 23mm racing slicks, go as thick as your frame and brakes allow. Having a bidon torpedo half way over the Paddestraat is not a desired outcome.
Make sure they’re securely attached to the bike is probably more important than the material itself. This is not a necessity, I stuck with my Elite Custom Race bottle cages and didn’t have any issues, but probably worth testing your own. Some people swear by metal cages to avoid bidon jack-in-a-boxes along the cobble sections. Riding the relatively thick 2.5mm Lizard Skins Bar tape I chose to stick with the well-known and trusted comfort.īottle cages are another topic up for discussion. It’s not only you the pavé is going to unleash a beating upon.īar tape and more bar tape, a lot of people double tape just for that added cushioning and even use gel pads under it. Especially parts such as your saddle, handlebars, quick release skewers etc. Your bike needs to be in full working order, this is a must ensure screws and bolts are secure and tighten to manufacturers requirements.
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