with a few threads about the low pivot and side mount pedal systems, i wonder if anyone remembers seeing any photos (in triathlon/triathlete mag.) of Paula racing HI IM on an unusual funny bike: one with small wheels (maybe 24s), a high BB, and a very unusual crankset: she had a 2nd pair sort of “mini cranks” attatched to her primary cranks at the spot where the pedals nomally mount.
anyone know the full story behind this crankset: who made it? did it work? why did paula ride it? where is the invention now? etc.
and anyone got a scanned image of this bike or crank that they could post?
I think it was Ralph Ray, or someone like that that did her set up back then… It was a Hamilton bike with 24" wheels.The pedals were unique, and she rocked on them. I think she used them on the record that still stands to this day in Hawaii…A guy on the forum here is making those same pedals, but way lighter than Paula’s heavy steel ones…His handle is smp in case anyone wants more info about them. I know a couple very good pros are trying them out right now…
Sorry, I do not know much about the system in question. I can tell you though that PNF sought me out when she saw my system for the first time. She used a early prototype in Hawaii 2004. I think someone would be able to find out, its not like she has dissapeared or something. I know she was at IM Arizona this year.
Steve www.sidemountpedal.com
P.S. There is a reason she set a couse record with this type of sytem. It works. But each system out there Vista, SMP, Dura Ace AX, all have quirks that make them hard to get the general public to use them.
I think they were called drop cranks. They had a pivot that would change the length of the crank depending on the postion in the rotation. I think they were on her Felt DA in 96 or 95.
I just saw her with a client on the way to breakfast. I will try and ask if I bump into her again.