I prefer big hills over big winds. With a hill, you know you're going to reach the top at some point. On super windy days, if you're traveling the wrong direction, the wind can be brutal. When I'm riding on a flat, part of my brain thinks I should be in a bigger gear, but of course if I do shift up, I soon regret it! Once I accept my fate and realize that the wind is going to have its way, I'm fine. Of course, if you can manage it so that you're heading into the wind going out, it sure can be fun to have a tailwind riding home!
All my century rides have 35miles non stop headwinds. Its not just a headwind, its coastal headwind and it is extremely brutal depending on the day. I've ridden against headwinds of over 27mph easy. My experience, headwind will eat your energy faster than any hill or mountain in a prolonged period of time.
Absolutely definitely. I commute and live in an area where during the winter months the headwinds on my commute can reach speeds approaching nearly 60 km/h and from experience I can honestly say I'd rather climb a long 20% grade hill in the rain than cycle in those kind of headwinds.
Luis, What I like most about these ride videos, is this is about the only opportunity for me right now to be watching inside a fast group ride with strong riders. I enjoy seeing how the riders are performing, pedaling keeping the paceline etc. Keep 'em coming my friend. Just a question, when you are holding 22-24 are you in the big ring and a high gear 10-12?
Hi Jess! I am happy to hear that you benefit from them. Yes, once the pace is on, it is straight to the big ring. For me, that's a 53. I am usually somewhere between the 12 and 15, depending on what's happening.
Was just visiting the Naples area and rented a bike down there. The first day was windy and even though it was flat it was no rest like you say no descending. It was interesting though one of the days I was riding and being so flat I hadn't shifted in long enough that my Di2 actually went to sleep 😄. It was enjoyable and there are some great groups down there.
I live in the RGV Texas where it’s flat for hundreds of miles but we have constant strong prevailing winds from the SE. I’m hoping by constantly cycling long distance in these winds will help me in some way for my first time cycling in the L’Etape de San Antonio in Texas hill country! I’ve already done my first century in 15-18mph wind, 100 miles in 5hr. 20 minutes.
the only tailwind I've ever experienced is when a semi comes flying passed and I get a little bump. I enjoy just watching people ride. It's pleasant. I enjoy watching these bike messengers in NY too. Thanks for the video
Looks like a fun ride, noticed not too many cars 👍 out here in norcal we have too many cars 😢. Agree with you to monitor and listen to your body. 65 year old and grew up riding without technology, there's always another day and ride!
If your fitness not being up to par gets you at 30mph, I think I've got a long journey to catch up to where you are on this ride. ;) Love the color commentary.
Wow that was a totally different ride overcast and strong winds however a very disciplined group of riders and lots of heads down to day loved it thank you keep safe Luis.
