South Downs Spring Sportive 2013

[Stubbo79]

Hi,

I have entered the South Downs Spring Sportive on 23rd March. This is going to be my first ever mass ride and will be riding on my own so was wondering if anyone had entered it before and could tell me what it was like. Or maybe anyone who has rode in a few sportive's could may e give me some tips and advice?

Thanks

 

[Payneys]

Stubbo- just make sure you prepare for it on the day - take the spare inner tube 2 even - make sure you've got the tool kit / pump etc etc . and don't be intimidated by it i only did my first last year - got lost got the puncture chain continually fell off going when changing down for hill ( thanks to the bike shop for the pre first ever sportive just make sure evrything is right service !) ut have done more since and they are fun if like me you are a "lone" cyclist .
I'm dong the new forest sportive in April so might do the downs one as its on my doorstep !

 

[Stubbo79]

Thanks Payneys for the advise. I am looking forward to it, have most things covered I think, two inner tubes are defiantly being packed though. Have you ever done this one before?? Was wondering if it was very hilly. Most miles I have done so far is 42 so I think I am ready for the distance. Did 40 miles on Tuesday and it felt good and been on the turbo trainer over the winter.

 

[Neilsy]

Hi,
This will be my first too, and have done same sort of distance as you stubbo, think first bit over ditchling will be the hardest bit but intend to do this at my own pace - am doing it with four others who are used to doing further and harder but if I try and stick with them I may well pay in the last 10 - 15 miles - hopefully wind will be kind !!

 

[Payneys]

Thanks Payneys for the advise. I am looking forward to it, have most things covered I think, two inner tubes are defiantly being packed though. Have you ever done this one before?? Was wondering if it was very hilly. Most miles I have done so far is 42 so I think I am ready for the distance. Did 40 miles on Tuesday and it felt good and been on the turbo trainer over the winter.

No not done that specific one but spend a lot of time up and around the South Downs - I'm not wiggins and regularly get passed by other cyclists ! I always put it down that I'm on my own and can't draft like they are as they breeze past me lol to get up the beacon I put it in the lowest gear right from the bottom approach and just crank the pedals turning them over .... Best average speed up is 4.9 mph ! See real pro ! Hope the weather hold out