Sponsors
Harlequin Adventure Duathlon
Bicycle tips from Marrey Bikes.
The most commonly used bike for this type of event would be a road racer.
Gears are a very important factor, poor planning may mean that you might have to walk the steep sections of the bike course.
We recommend using a Compact Chain-Set ( 50/34 ) or a Triple, either of these will give you the gear options that you will need on the steeper parts of the cycle, especially the off road section where gradients are up to 20% . If your bike has a 52/39 Chain–Set you would need a 27 tooth cassette on the rear wheel.
So when choosing your bike check to see you are getting the above recommended low gearing. A time trial bike is also suitable but only if your fitness level is very good and you have a few adventure races under your belt.
It is also very important to use a bike fitted to suit your height and size. The wrong size bike can easily cause injuries. With the correct size bike you will also be much more efficient as regards how much output you will get relative to your input.
Fit good quality tires to your bike, ones that will hack the serve Irish conditions and handle the few potholes, the best type of tire would be either the Continental Gator skin or the Specialized Armadillos, the best size 700x 23c.
Tire pressure is also very important, check the side of the tire for recommended tire pressure, normally 100psi to 110psi is plenty. Make sure your bike is in good working order to avoid any problems during the event.
Nutrition
• We recommend if you are going to use energy bars or gels that you start using them at least 2 to 3 weeks before the event as it takes a bit of time to get used to energy products.
Repairs
• Bring a small toolkit (allen key set ) just in case something were to work itself loose during your event at least if you have the tools someone can help you .
Carry a spare tube and tire levers in a saddle bag and clap on a good pump.
Helmet
• Get a properly fitted helmet, no point having it flopping around on your head as this serves no protection if you were to fall .Also the better fitted it is the more aerodynamic it is ,which will enable you to post a quicker time overall .
Rain jackets
• It is important to have a good jacket, if you are unlucky enough to get a puncture then at least whilst your fixing it you will still be warm, nothing worse than standing freezing at the side of the road when it could have been avoided for the sake of a few euro .Get one you can roll up and put in rear your pocket, its also part on the mandatory kit and may come in handy on the Reek.
Sundries
• We have many other products and items that you may require for your event, so why not come in and we can give you the low down on what’s hot.
Best of luck from all at Marrey Bikes
0949542808
www.marreybikes.com
Bicycle Guide from Marrey bikes
Harlequin Clothing and Shoe Reviews from Exposure Castlebar.pdf
With The Harlequin Adventure Duathlon just under a month away thought the following products might be of some use to you all.
Columbia Ravenous Trail Running Shoe
http://www.exposure-sports.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=450
Great shoe if you want the confidence to run on mixed terrain. Good forefoot grip which is ideal for that slippery hilly Irish countryside. Excellent heel absorption and sufficient grip for those hairy descents on rough trails or tarmac. Not overly lightweight but mesh construction makes them good for letting out any water reducing on that excess baggage.
Salomon XT Wings Trail Running Shoe
http://www.exposure-sports.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=3
While this shoe may be slightly heavier than some of its competitors its certainly a very suitable shoe for this event as it offers a little more protection from the sharp rock you meet on the way down the hill. The descent from the Booster station can be quite severe on the joints and this shoe offers excellent absorption and support limiting impact hence leaving you fresher for the bike leg of the event
Omm The Last Drop 10 Litre (Trail running specific Bag)
http://www.exposure-sports.com/Brands.aspx?BrandID=99
On the run into Gaelforce this was was one of our most popular selling packs. Omm specialize in creating lightweight product for mountain marathon runners and multisport athletes etc Pack size depends on the racers individual requirements, Everyone is different in terms of their nutritional requirements throughout a race and what extra clothing is needed etc Obviously this has a bearing on the size of pack chosen by the athlete. The last drop 10 litre pack locks onto your back and is incredibly stable while running, it also gives you the option of combing a hydration bladder, again the amount of water you decide to carry depends on the individual however its worth remembering that you have the option of using two drink bottles on the bike leg so it might be worth limiting the amount of water you carry on your back going up to the Booster station!
The North Face Women’s Warm Base layer
http://www.exposure-sports.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=481
With The Harlequin marking the start of the adventure racing season in Ireland for 2012 it’s probably safe to say that temperatures will be a good bit cooler than races ran over the summer months. The Women’s Warm Long Sleeve Zip Neck base layer is the first vital layer in an effective clothing system to keep lady athletes comfortable, warm and dry. Lady adventure lovers will appreciate the double layer fabric which adds warmth whilst the garment retains its wicking properties that helps evacuate sweat from the skin. Flat locked seams reduce chafing. For any low to medium intensity aerobic pursuit in cold weather, biking, running etc – a technical base layer like the Women’s Warm Long Sleeve Zip Neck, is the foundation of comfort, warmth and enjoyment.