Seth wrote:
I'm in for DK200!
I've done 16+ Ironman races, Ultraman Hawaii, many mountain bike events, road races, but the gravel scene is new to me.
Can anyone point me towards some good resources regarding:
1) the nuances of the course
2) bike setup including:
a) 700c vs 650b wheels
b) tire width and pressure
c) carbon vs alloy stem handlebars
d) frame bags
e) bottles vest vs hydration vest
3) Accomodation suggestions
4) any other inside tips!
1) the nuances of the course
The course will be different this year, but in general there are rolling hills, very little shade, and a variety of gravel-types. Some roads will be very smooth, others will have larger rocks, and other roads will have sharp flint rock. The race usually spends a lot of time in open grazing fields, so you'll pass within a few feet of cows, and they may even decide to run with you for a while. To get an idea of what the area looks like, go to Google Images and search for Flint Hills Kansas.
2) bike setup including:
a) 700c vs 650b wheels
b) tire width and pressure
c) carbon vs alloy stem handlebars
d) frame bags
e) bottles vest vs hydration vest
In my opinion, 38c-43c is about the sweet spot for tires on that course. If it is muddy, then a 650b would help give you miore mud clearance while still allowing for a wide tire, but I would go with 700c if dry. You don't want to pick a tire based on rolling resistance alone. You want something that rolls good but also has durable sidewalls. The flint rock is no joke. If it is wet, the tires will cut even easier. Tubeless is the way to go. Bring tubeless plugs, CO2, a hand pump, 2 tubes, and a patch kit. I used all of the above last year to get to the finish line. Pressure depends on a lot of things (tire width, your weight, etc). I'm 165 lbs and usually run about 35psi on 35c tires. For 38s, I run about 30-32. For stem and handlebars, I think an allow stem is fine. Some carbon bars absorb road chatter, so that might work for you. You can also double wrap your bar with tape for more cushion. Make sure your carbon bars say they are compatible with aerobars before you clamp them on. For a frame bag, a DarkSpeedWorks bag on the toptube is nice. I did a Camelbak for one of the legs last year. It depends on how far apart the rest stops are. If I would need more than 3 bottles for that leg, I'll take a hydration pack.
3) Accomodation suggestions
Not sure. We stayed at an Air BNB.
4) any other inside tips!
Aerobars are helpful. Not only do you go faster, but it is nice to be able to rest your weight on your forearms after a while.
Most flats happen on downhills. People decide to "send it" to make up time, hit a rock, and snake bite their tubeless tire on the rim. Watch your line on the downhills carefully.
Having support in the checkpoints/aid stations is a gamechanger. Make sure you have a plan to get in and out quick, and make sure your support crew is aware of your plan.
Like any long race, taking care of your body is one of the most important skills/strategies. Don't get ahead or behind on calories/hydration.