not a mtb beginner anymore

[Cadillac]

Ok, I can officially say I can do the 30km races (still walking some areas) but I think I am ready for the big step. Now what? How do I train? Must I ride longer to get use to the saddle or must I ride faster?

[The Drongo]

Ok, I can officially say I can do the 30km races (still walking some areas) but I think I am ready for the big step. Now what? How do I train? Must I ride longer to get use to the saddle or must I ride faster?

 

Well done Cadillac.

 

If you have a Brooks saddle you will need to ride longer in order to get used to the saddle. If you ride Selle Italia, you will never get used to the saddle.

 

If you ride 30km races, and plan to now do 45+, you are going to be riding longer anyway.

 

If you are concerned about missing Sunday afternoon rugby, then yes, you will have to pedal faster to finish the 45K ride in the same time as the 30K ride.

 

Either way, have fun.

Edited April 8, 2011 by The Drongo

[Grebel]

Ok, I can officially say I can do the 30km races (still walking some areas) but I think I am ready for the big step. Now what? How do I train? Must I ride longer to get use to the saddle or must I ride faster?

 

Welcome to the Hub! In my experience, you should just ride at this stage. The more you ride, the better you will get. Once you start wanting to be at the front of the pack, you can look at the intervals and drills. Enjoy!!

[kosmonooit]

Yes, just some gentle longish flat rides, gentle climbs, to acclimatise, then you can up the stakes!

[tombeej]

Hey Cadillac

 

Getting used to the distance comes first, speed comes later.

 

Go for long easy rides to get used to long hours in the saddle. Maybe start with 50km rides on the road first (much easier than 50km offroad), then build up to fun rides up to 50km offroad. Keep it relaxed and at your own pace. Take enough fluids & solid foods. Maybe take a couple of GU's in the back pocket in case you bonk before the finish (rather only take them in an emergency - don't just munch them because they taste nice).

 

Not only does your body need to become adapted to longer distances, but your mind too. Once you've done long rides past 50km, you'll start to find that 30km is nothing all of a sudden (i.e. it's a mental thing).

 

When you have reached this point, you can start other forms of training to make you go fast.

[kosmonooit]

About those GU gels - mixed opinions! I've given the gels up since they peak your sugar levels then I really feel lousy. But their other product those jellies I have found good.

[tombeej]

About those GU gels - mixed opinions! I've given the gels up since they peak your sugar levels then I really feel lousy. But their other product those jellies I have found good.

 

 

For sure, don't touch them - only in emergencies. I just added that mention about gels as a possible 'reserve tank' if you run out of gas before reaching the end.

[LOUDMAC]

B..... ....A .......S .......E !!!

8-12 weeks.

NOW hit it hard!

 

RIDE BABY RIDE!!!!

[Robrider]

To add to that: Get on some technical trails. The longer races, such as marathons often are slightly more technical as they cater for more competent riders. Besides, its the technical stuff thats the most fun anyway, and gives you the greatest satisfaction nailing something that you had to walk last time.

[manbearpig]

Performance enhancing drugs! And lots of 'em!

[tombeej]

Performance enhancing drugs! And lots of 'em!

 

Never heard of Viagra doing anything for your riding, but each to his own...

[MTBer wannabee]

Never heard of Viagra doing anything for your riding, but each to his own...

depends who you riding

Edited April 8, 2011 by MTBer wannabee

[tombeej]

depends who you riding

 

... and if you've got enough in the leg to go the distance...

[rudi-h]

Just ride and step up the distance. The worst that can happen is that you attempt something too long, then you'll have a hard day in the saddle which will all be forgotten after the cold beer. Then you'll know your limits