[chris the monikerless]

Hello,

I did my first race this morning, The Spring Cup at Buck Hill. I couldn't believe how hard it was! I almost quit halfway through but managed to finish. I went over the handlebars once and my helmet hasn't fit quite the same since. I think that's when the computer stopped working too. The rain only added to the experience. I don't know how you ss guys do it but if I didn't have my granny gear I would have been walking up even more hills. At first I tried to be a good little racer and pedal up all the hills but that only lasted about half a lap, after that I followed everyone else's example and walked up the harder ones. It was quite an experience, I will probably do it again after I forget how hard it was.

Oh yeah. As far as I could tell, I had the only Surly, the only 29er and the only rigid bike.

 

[shark67]

seriously now

You've got to really inspect that helmet and make sure there are no cracks or anything. If there is even the tiniest crack or strap pulled through--RETIRE THAT HELMET. It has done its job and now you need a new one.

But good job on finishing. My first race was also pretty crappy, but now that I have a few under my belt I realized how much fun they are. My first race this season my saddle popped off the rails and I had to stand on the pedals for 6 miles--still finished 8th of 9 clydesdales.

Congrats on toughing it out!

 

[fotu]

You've got to really inspect that helmet and make sure there are no cracks or anything. If there is even the tiniest crack or strap pulled through--RETIRE THAT HELMET. It has done its job and now you need a new one.

That's a good point. There may be a replacement policy with the company that made your helmet. Its worth looking in to. I sent my smooshed Phi to Bell and got a new one mailed back for $30.

Keep racing. It really helps with fitness, which makes racing MUCH more fun. Know what I mean?

 

[Captain Kana]

Congratulations.
I will be doing my first race next weekend. 24HOA at Laguan Seca. I still have not decided if I should use the SS or Geared.
I have heard always get a new melon protecter if it takes a blow.
Dan C.