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Chaingang - Tues 15 June 2021, 7pm

Martin LMartin L
edited June 2021 in Chain gangs
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Hi all

Another warm chaino this evening with a gentle southerly. Should be a good one.

I am racing at Bovingdon tomorrow - so saving me legs. I may be tempted to do one lap though.

This reminds me... when dropping off the chaingang at the end of a lap, while others are carrying on for another lap, be sure to ease to the back of the bunch way in advance and call out 'last' or make it really obvious you are peeling off. Last week, a rider got blocked by riders in front easing up and couldn't pace themselves back on to the next lap chain.

Allez!

Standard chaino info...

If you want in on the 2021 Ashwell Chaingang WhatsApp group for the very latest updates on the evening: text me. Martin 07977652247

7pm - Depart Ashwell, Three Tuns at easy pace.
7.05pm - Meet up with those waiting at Steeple Morden pub/church and begin the chaingang. Let's have a quick discussion on groups here if need be before setting off. Most people aim for two laps.

We will probably be two groups if turnout is high. 'Group 2' more inclusive at around 22mph average which is basically the same as doing the Club 10 TT in 30 minutes. If you're able to do that: you're fine, as the aero/energy benefits of drafting will help. Group 2 should let the other group go first by a minute or so - to avoid the chances of overlapping on the course.

1. We rotate the chain anti-clockwise all the way.

2. If there's less than 4, it's probably better making it a TTT instead of a chain.

3. All welcome. CCA members or not.

4. Feeling the burn? Before you blow up, sit out your place in the chain and simply hang on at the back saying 'Last!' so the gang knows to miss you out. Enjoy the free speed from the group draft effect for as long as you like, recover and rejoin the chain with clear communication once you have your breath back.

5. Aim for smoothness: the fast line is only fractionally faster (1mph) than the resting line, don't spring out of corners, don't overlap wheels, be super alert at all times and call out every hazard and manoeuvre.

6. "What if I get dropped?"… It can happen to anyone and that's fine: you are still officially bad-ass for turning up and doing it. Ease back or turn around and latch on the next lap, or solo TT to continue the effort . Come back next week and see if you can hold on for longer.

7. The 9-mile lap:
https://www.bikemap.net/en/r/996158/

Comments

  • Martin LMartin L
    Around 16 out in total yesterday - with people joining and leaving along the way. A bit choppy in pace, position and communication at first I thought for a 25.2mph lap. I think things smoothed out thereafter for what I think was the fastest lap of the year, 25.5mph.

    All good fun and rewarding to go smoothly along the lanes in the warmth.

    See ya next week.
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