Entered my First Audax - now what???

[Edwardoka]

Audax riders don't have any support mechanics, so need to be self-sufficient, with the result that many of them are very knowledgeable about bike maintenance and fixing. Quite a few build their own bikes up, being the best way to learn all about it.

Now there's an idea for you !!!

But if I've never used a support mechanic or a broom wagon and have only ever been stranded on a ride once...
I have neither the energy, the digital dexterity, nor the common sense required for proper bike maintenance

 

[Fubar]

Okaaaaaaay, so no mincing around and just get on with it - goddit.

Already have pencil and backup pen looked out, spare batteries purchased, with map in a waterproof case. Not laid out my kit yet, maybe tomorrow night...

 

[Hill Wimp]

Map of the stars maybe

 

[Fubar]

But then we want a full debrief and then your training plan for LEL 2017.

...or my vow never to attempt something so foolish ever again...

 

[Hill Wimp]

...or my vow never to attempt something so foolish ever again...

I bet you love it and soon sign up for more afterwards.

 

[Fubar]

Map of the stars maybe

Next thing you'll be suggesting I take a long wave radio transmitter with me!

 

[Fubar]

I bet you love it and soon sign up for more afterwards.

 

[mcshroom]

When you get down to it, what's the difference between an audax and a sportive?

About £30

 

[Scoosh]

Not laid out my kit yet, maybe tomorrow night...

If you are driving to the start remember to put your cycling shoes in the bag too …


… and, yes it has been done … even by someone on CC !


… and at the start of LEL !!!

 

[jefmcg]

But if I've never used a support mechanic or a broom wagon

Ironically, sportives are too short to need either. Is something goes wrong on a sportive, worst case you are only 80km from the start, and most likely much less.

 

[Fubar]

If you are driving to the start remember to put your cycling shoes in the bag too …


… and, yes it has been done … even by someone on CC !


… and at the start of LEL !!!

That's what lists are for

 

[Scoosh]

I have neither the energy, the digital dexterity, nor the common sense required for proper bike maintenance

Brain the size of a planet … and fingers … well … err … much the same !

You're not nearly as ham-fisted as you might think. A wee bit of practice and you'd be fine (and a bit wealthier … … maybe even n+1 wealthier ?? )

 

[Simpleton]

The question of how long you stop at controls is directly proportional to how you ride. A steady ride at a constant pace off the back of a good training base will see you through bouncing the controls save for a quick drink and a energy bar. Ride beyond your means will see you needing to stop more and potentially your speed dropping off a cliff for rides over 200 miles.

 

[Fubar]

Looks like I'm going to have to do without the Garmin as a route finder/follower - uploaded the .tcx file to it, went to cycle to work and all I get is the "Working..." error. I'm sure if I remove the course it will work again, but that doesn't really help with routing. Just tried a manual upload to Garmin Connect which doesn't work either.

Map and laminated sheets it is then!

 

[mcshroom]

Upload it to bikehike and download it again? THat might clear the error.