I’m looking at some numbers here from my Powertap that’s been uploaded to Cycling Peaks, and as much as I like hillclimbs and riding outside, it’s pretty obvious that I’d excel most in the individual/team pursuit, which is roughly a 4 to 4 1/2 minute event. Any recommended reading for this event, such as how to train for it, or logs of those who do/did train for it, would be appreciated.
Is there a place, or rather, what is the place for the pursuit specialist in road racing?
What level district/national? Have you looked at the Coggan power profile for pursuiters? You have to do an a standing start, then the 4 to 4.5 minute effort. What track do you live near? Probably some good coaches there if you live near one.
http://lists.topica.com/search/?query=pursuit&x=0&y=0&search_what=900009803&search_type=msg
I don’t think there is Jack out there published on track training. Fixedgearfever.com
the drome, individual track websites are good places to start. I think you are in SoCal or LowCal. There are a few good Coaches in SD, Eddie B is one but pretty pricey. The Depo Drome has several teams/coaches working out of there. Learning the pista is super for being a roadie as you will learn to move those legs. and strike fear in the local crit when you earn your “trackie” wings. I wouldn’t isolate yourself on one event before you get experienced as you may love the mass start events. Track racing is like roadracing on meth, don’t get discouraged early as the speed will come. Be prepared to have your doors blown off by old looking fat guys, little kids, and plenty of women. The killermeter and 4k are lonesome really tough events that are dominated by some really hard men.
I wouldn’t even buy an aerobike your first year as there are pretty nice inexpensive track bikes out there. Be sure the one you buy has 144 chainring cranks. And used steel bikes are usually cheap. I would also try and start with 165s for the first year just to learn the track and then move longer if necessary…
Keep in touch with Super Dave and Mr Woo as they always say the right things in my humble opinion.
Oh and yes there are several trackies in the Giro and Tour. Most of them are the crazy men from OZ
Had to go ride at the track just as I posted that message so I couldn’t find the link until now.
http://midweekclub.ca/articles/
There is a small thing here on pursuiting at this web site.
Also, I’m only a club coach but I peeked at the expert coaches manual and there is a section there on track.
If you are in SoCal Eddie Monnier is down there.
http://www.cyclingnews.com/fitness/Training
This is a pretty good steer its short but I doubt you’ll find a truely comprehensive training plan from any literature out there for free.
The source doesn’t get any better than this.
Graeme Obree’s autobiography “Flying Scotsman” (Birlinn Press) will give you valuble insight into the event, as well as what it takes to suceed at it.