Time Trial / Time Trialling / TT

I’m impressed by Hippy's ride in the Combine 25.

The obvious calculation to be made is: aero helmet + clip on bars = 9 secs/mile = minus 3minutes 45 secs. (Yes, I do realise the basic premise may not be deadly accurate.)

In addition Hippy had one or two other things against him that may be less obvious.

[*]He does not ride may TT’s.

Although it’s very easy to become stale by riding too many, I believe it’s necessary to ride enough to learn to judge what pace you are capable of maintaining. Also, to ride in competition is good training for later races – everyone goes a bit faster with a number on their back.

[*]It wasn’t an easy day.

I know because I was out there struggling, just a few miles further North.

[*]It’s still very early in the season.

I try to avoid riding standard distance events to start with – the results are usually too depressing. I know I’ll go faster later on, maybe in May or June.

[*]The Amersham Road is not fast, even without traffic lights.

I’d roughly agree with Richard Jerome’s estimate, although personally I wouldn’t pick the Ski Slope as an example of a fast course.

Finally, another excellent report. Time trialling really needs more reporting because it is impossible for outsiders to understand what’s going on by just watching. In the distant past ‘Cycling’ used to report these events, but not any more. It’s up to us to use the new media, just as Hippy is doing.

Thank you. :)
I like those calcs. That means a "podium finish" had I shelled out for the aero goodies.
My last TT was in May last year so you're right, I don't ride many. Pacing is important and learning about pacing only comes with racing so I really need to do some more.
I did 1:01 on the ski slope last year (my first 25) so I'm using that as a course I can break the hour on. Rich reckons 1:05 on Amersham = sub-1hr on Ski Slope.
What's a 'fast course' in your mind?

It's rare that I feel like writing up rides these days. I've lost interest a bit. But since it's not common for me to do a TT, let alone do one I'm happy with.. it got written up :)