[Yak] A speedier slug (was: PL a slug? Does a chicken have hard lips?)

[Galfromdownunder]

 From the desk of none other than Rob English, http:// 
www.bikefriday.com/gallery/robenglish, due to race a recumbent in  
RAAM, so he should know...

Three things I think:

1. Gearing. Greg doesn't say if he is spinning out or not, but with  
only a 89" gear (the 406 wheel is about 18.5" diameter), compared to  
120" on a typical 700C bike, he needs a bigger chainring.

(or that Capreo! Some people use both, like BF Club of Austin, TX's  
Ron Neher and his 62 tooth chainring+Capreo  http:// 
www.bikefriday.com/gallery?imageId=2262 - LC)


2. Tyres. The smaller wheels seem to amplifly the difference in tyre  
rolling resistance. The fastest tyres I know of in the 406 size are  
the Schwalbe Stelvios (get them quick before they stop making them  
for '09).

(or switch to a 451mm bike like the Pro - LC)

3. Aerodynamics. I don't know what handlebars are being used, but  
assuming the typical mtb bars on a PL, the upright position and width  
makes a huge speed difference compared to drops, even when drafting.

( I will stop butting in - LC)

Hope this helps!
Rob.