Looking to tap into the collective wisdom of ST.
Debating my fueling strategy for IMLP.
For those who have done special needs: How much time does it take to stop at special needs (just to swap out 3 bottles)? Can it be done relatively fast? Say 60 to 90 seconds
For those who go with superbottles and pick up water bottles on course: How do you store those disposable plastic bottles on the bike? I definitely can see them flying out of my cages… Presumably some sort of refillable hydration system (xlab, profile, or a bladder in the frame)
Thanks everyone, appreciate it
I think yes it can be done in that amount of time if you’re sharp and not doing anything else (peeing, changing clothes, etc). But, don’t be a madman rushing around, it could be a hectic spot unless you’re FOP and one of the first ppl there. Toss all bottles before arrival so cages empty, all you do is stop, shuffle over to bag, grab, load, go.
The plastic bottles stay decently enough in my BTS x lab cage. Or in a bta setup that’s facing forward and sloped upwards so gravity helps it stay in. I advise finding a gas station that sells water in those variety of bottle and test it out with your setup.
Ironman is switching over to Precision Fuel for bottles which comes in bike bottles (still have plain water too)
I’ve been in and out of special needs swapping frame bottles and refilling my BTA bottle in 75ish seconds the past couple of years, so it definitely can be done! The volunteer relaying numbers up to the ones grabbing bags stands towards the base of a small hill, which ends up giving them a little extra time to be ready with your bag. It’s a pretty efficient process there that’s been worth it for me.
Thank you. Thanks everyone.
You can fashion a speed lace, rubber band, or hair elastic to help hold the bottles in place.