What to the pro’s carry?

New Question 5-13-08

Thank you for your insight, it has been very informative and helpful. I have already used some of your advice offered, as I was questioned recently if I was ready for my race. And I quickly responded; I hope not… I want to be ready come race day and not now, months away for the actual race.

Question about tires; what kind of tires do you use? Tubular or clinchers? I have noticed that some of the pro’s do not have a bike bag attached to their hydration wings, and more often than not, may only have a folded tire of two with CO2 taped to it. Why is this? Are there tubular tires mounted in a way so that they can easily be separated (no tools required) from the rim and replaced by another tire? What is the best tire to use for racing and can easily be folded? What should I have attached to my hydration wing during my race? Is weight really an issue at this point?

Regarding wheels, what was your set up for Arizona? What did you run in the front and back? I am considering a Blackwell 100mm rear and 50 front. And due to limited financial support, will probably run this set up in Arizona as well?

Normally, I ride my trainer for mountain/ hill workouts and most of the time during my training. However, with 10 weeks out before my second Half ironman race of the year (Vineman) when would be a good time to switch from the road bike and concentrate on the tri bike?

Response;

I use Michelin ProRace3 tires with Michelin AirComp latex tubes. For Ironman racing, I carry two tubes, two co2 catridges, one tire lever, an inflator, and a multi-tool. For half-ironman, only one tube and co2. You can glue a tubular for easy removal, but I wouldn't want to. I think a lot of people don't realize how much a lightly glued tire slows you down.


I use a Zipp 808 clincher front and clincher disc rear.


You should ride your TT bike approximately once a week during most of the season for a hard interval ride, but you don't need to switch to riding it "full time" until about 4-6 weeks before the race.