As someone who finished last year on a fixed wheel, I think its easy to
underestimate how hard it is. I know I did. ITs one of the hardest rides I
ever did. There are some tough climbs, and some equally long descents that
youre going to have to spin your way through.Before I started last year,
more than a few people warned me I wouldnt make it. Richard Hallett told me
it was "purgatory".(I should also mention Bob Freitas said "Youre
messengers? Of course you'll make it. I wouldnt expect you to have gears.",
which was exactly what I needed to hear at that point)
>Going back to the fixed topic, there were a number of fixed,
>Cambio Corsa, Margarita and even coaster brake bikes these past 2 years
>and the real question is would they do it again?
Would I do it again? Totally. Just not for a while :) This year I'm planning on bringing a 1947 Hobbs, with freewheel and gears. Maybe as many as 3 or 4. I think a Cambio Corsa would be ideal. I think the thing I wanted from l'eroica that I didnt get last year is the atmosphere of a vintage road race, being in the pack. Its hard to do that when the pack shifts down and drops you as soon as the flat starts, or freewheels away on the long descents. Having said that, 200k fixed is rewarding in a different way, and I think a lot of people were surprised how well we kept up. I'll definitely be back on another fixed project another time. I think I like the ASC idea...
And yes. I remember the Masi at the swapmeet and trying to work out why I shouldnt buy it :)
John Hudson
London, UK