TdF riders train on ssfg?

[mustang1]

Not talking about track riders here, but do other pro riders train on single speed or fixed gear bikes?

I've read much about how ssfg assists in training so wondered if pro riders also use such a bike.

 

[Joffey]

Saw on Twitter that a rider, think with was Russ Downing, is doing a hill climb comp on a fixie this weekend so maybe some of them do. Not really heard of it apart from that though.

 

[Sittingduck]

I think Cav has a fixed

 

[Sharky]

This cutting was from a copy of the "comic" from about 1967. It gave me inspiration at the time and I've kept it ever since.

 

[Smokin Joe]

I doubt if more than a handful bother now.

 

[totallyfixed]

Yes, many do but not as much as used to be the case. Winter club runs used to have a fair smattering of fixed riders but with the advent of the turbo trainer and many of the pros training in warmer climates through the off season there is not as much interest any more, a pity really as it is an excellent training tool as well as fun to ride.

Saw on Twitter that a rider, think with was Russ Downing, is doing a hill climb comp on a fixie this weekend so maybe some of them do. Not really heard of it apart from that though.

That really depends on who you ride with and where. Myself and dr_pink are the only fixed riders in these parts but we know a few top riders who ride fixed. It is the weapon of choice for many hill climbers providing the gradient does not change too much. Russell Downing will be at Monsal Head this Sunday as will Dame Sarah Storey, Jessie Walker and our very own dr_pink.

 

[mustang1]

The reason I ask is many people told me it will make me a stronger rider. While I can why, I couldn't figure why, if it makes one stronger, why a pro (non track) rider doesn't train with ssfg? Are they already strong enough and need to train differently to this tdf wannabee?

 

[Smokin Joe]

The reason I ask is many people told me it will make me a stronger rider. While I can why, I couldn't figure why, if it makes one stronger, why a pro (non track) rider doesn't train with ssfg? Are they already strong enough and need to train differently to this tdf wannabee?

It can't make you stronger, but riding with just one ratio and no opportunity to freewheel helps to increase your leg speed.