Climbing steep and constant mountain grades

[psychling]

I live in a very mountainous area in Arizona. For example, here is a local `loop' that I train on: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/113716919

Here is a link to a charity ride I'll be doing next weekend (the 95 mile event): http://www.absolutebikes.net/taylor/rideinfo.html

I have the Sofrider, Silvio and Vendetta.

A key advantage to a recumbent is the aero position. But when you're climbing a steady 5% to 7% incline for mile after mile `aero' is not relevant. I'm finding that I `sit' in a more vertical position when doing these climbs. In order to remain comfortable and get the most for my effort I've added `depth' to the pad on the seat back and the seat pan.

The net that Cruzbike encloses the firm rubber and soft foam cell padding accomodates additional lightweight firm rubber and soft foam cell padding. And it really makes a remarkable difference on the climbs.

Adding padding doesn't restrict me from sliding down and getting more aero on the straightaways.

I'm hoping this is helpful to others wanting to tap into the incredible versatility and potential of the Cruzbikes.

 

[Romagjack]

Very impressive stats. Do you

Very impressive stats. Do you split your time among the bikes or do you ride the V most of the time? Do you have pics of the extra padding? Have a great century ride and please post your Garmin stats when finished.

 

[WhiteSilvio]

Impressive Heart rate figures

Hi psychling,
May I just say that those are pretty impressive heart rate figures, particularly the 255bpm maximum!

Are you an trained athlete and pretty young?

The general guide for someone starting exercise, as you would probably be aware, is 220 minus one's age in years.

So is that an accurate figure? There does seem to be something strange going on with the graphs for heart rate between 20 and 38 miles.

Your average is near my maximum. I generally average 135 to 140bpm, but then I'm not an athlete and I'm in my mid to late 50's.

Regards,
WhiteSilvio

 

[psychling]

More than impressive. Impossible.

WhiteSilvio ...

There is a small paragraph of narrative at the top left of the Garmin data. You will note that I explain that the heart rate figures are both inaccurate and impossible. When a HRM goes past powerful electric power lines they completely `screw with' the internal electronic reading of the HRM.

If my HR were to jump to those numbers you would not be reading this reply because I'd be on the side of the road providing a nice meal for a family of Javelinas and myriad other hungry little critters.

- Dan
http://psychling1.blogspot.com/