Gauley Headwaters IMBA Epic - what gear?

farley said:

I've done some singlespeed riding in that area, as have two friends of mine who have worked as guides wiht ERTC. All on 29"ers. I used 32 X 20--and I think Craig and Joey did as well (though they're both much stronger that me!)

I think a 32:18 would give you the same ratio on a 26" wheel.

There's not as much climbing on that route as might think (don't get me wrong--there's plenty--I just thought there'd be more) You got through a couple of watersheds and climb the adjacent ridges, but a lot of the riding is along the ridgetops which are kind of flat. Technical as hell, but kind of flat.

I think you'll have fun. If you run into Joey Boyle (guide at ERTC--rides a yellow Vicious monolith) tell him Mac says "hi."

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MellowCat said:

Thanks for the gear recommendation.

So the Epic route is not tough from a climbing perspective...but very rocky and technical?

Don't let me mislead you, there's certainly climbing, but you're right, it's the rocky and technical that makes this epic "epic."

How long did it take you to complete the 37 miles?

It's been a few years, but if I remember correctly it took about eight hours. That's based on a shuttle to the starting point on top of Gauley Mtn. If you climb mine road from 219 that will add more time.

Also, when I did that ride, I was running gears. I've since ridden in that area on SS, but just not that particular route. So the gearing recommendation is likely to be more accuarate the the time estimate.

Have fun!

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