Two Wheel Blogs

My version of sprinting with Campy shifters is an invigorating trip. Make no mistake, I am an average sprinter at best when compared to your typical cat 5 field...and I know it. Sometimes it is fun to fantasize and live like a kid (you know you roll into sight of a sprint sign and imagine for a moment that you are Mario, or Robbie)

Like I said, I am not a hardcore sprinter, but I can hold my own against other hacks like myself. A typical ride for me involves a fair amount of trash talk and ego fluffing, so it should come as no surprise that challenging another rider to a sprint is common place on a ride.

There is something about sprinting among friends that is really fun. Especially if you know the contenders well. It becomes a game of timing, bluffing (sort of like poker, but you need to have strength too).

Since I started riding on Campy, this game has become even more fun. I drop down to the drops and prepare for the sprint. It could be 2 miles off, or only a tenth of a mile...either way, it's on!

Once in the drops I get low and put my thumb on the shifter like the hammer of a pistol. With these things you can pop off one gear at a time or go full lock to the 11. Once your hammer is fully cocked, it is time to fly!

It is all in fun, and no one ever really gets shot, but it is fun to cock the hammer, then pick off your competitors!

May be you think I am nuts, but if you do not dream a little, you are getting way too old! Go for a ride.

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