r/ultracycling

I have my SPD pedals and gravel-shoes for a while now and I installed them on my new roadbike because I am fine with them and I really like the ability to walk normal with my gravel shoes.

Now, I have to look for new shoes and for a while now I am thinking about getting SPD-SL cleats for summer.

So the optical things aside - how much more efficient is a spd-sl pedal? I know that it has bigger contact surface - but is the gain really measurable in watts? Is it really worth it? Is there some scientifical standpoint for this where someone tried to measure it?

I mean, on some side is has to be, right? Otherwise I would not understand why everyone is using shoes with cleats you can not really walk on. :-)

And yes, I just choose what I am happy with and I dont feel preasure to buy something just because others have it. I am just curious and I like to test different things to gain experience.

I’m looking for a pretty specific type of road bike and I’m starting to wonder if it even exists 😅

My goal is ultra-distance road events / fast endurance riding, so I still want:

- a genuinely high-performance bike

- a dynamic geometry

- something efficient and exciting to ride

But at the same time, I’m obsessed with integration and practical features.

To me, the future is:

- internal frame storage

- integrated frame bags

- top tube bolts

- clean cockpit integration

- easy aero bar compatibility

- smart ultra-distance details without turning the bike into a “gravel mule”

And that’s where I’m struggling.

For example:

- bikes like the Pinarello new Grevil F (or similar gravel-oriented platforms) have amazing integration and storage solutions, but the geometry and overall philosophy are too gravel-focused for what I want.

- endurance bikes like the Cannondale Synapse, Trek Domane, Scott Addict, Canyon Endurace, etc. are close, but often a bit too “progressive”, comfort-oriented or not aggressive enough.

- what I’d LOVE is something with the vibe of an Endurace CFR, but with:

- true internal storage

- top tube mounts

- clean aero bar compatibility

- modern all-road practicality

Basically:

a fast road bike designed by someone who actually rides ultra-distance events.

Am I missing some niche brands or lesser-known models here?

Thanks!

Hey all,

Can anyone recommend a good minimal/emergency sleeping setup for a road Ultra in Europe during summer? I am planning to sleep in hotels/AirBnBs everytime and I therefore want so save as much space/weight as possible on any possible sleeping gear. What can you recommend?

E.g just a sleeping bag? Or just a small bivy?

Glad for any suggestions!

Hi all,

I've already passed road racing and triathlon, but after several injuries caused by running I started to think about ultra cycling racing. At the beginning something "shorter", no more than 300 km.

So far, I've got Tarmac SL7 Pro with aero handlebars and Canyon Speedmax which is not an option here.
What would be the best to start with ultra cycling? To change the handlebars in my Tarmac, so I can put there aero bars (with aero handlebars there is no option to do so, and Specialized aero bars designed for SL7 has no adjustments at all) or buy Pinarello Grevil which I like the most from all gravel bikes?

Thank you in advance for all tips!

I'm planning on doing the Setanta route of the Transatlantic Way event next year, 1,700km around most of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. I'm looking some advice on bike & kit choice.

My plan is to sleep outdoors every other night and got a proper bed and shower for the others (hostel / B&B), estimating it is going to take me around 6 to 7 days to complete, although not too hung up on speed or placing in the top 10 etc, more complete than compete. I've done some bike touring previously and am a well-trained multisport endurance athlete so not too concerned about the preparation as I will be fully focused on training in the 6 months leading up to the event.

I have a couple of bikes to choose from:

1. Winter road bike, carbon frame, rim brake, mechanical gearing, carbon wheels set up tubeless
2. High-end road bike, SRAM AXS, discs brakes, carbon wheels set up tubeless
3. Aluminium CX bike, naturally heavier than above two, discs brakes, mechanical gearing, light alu wheels set up tubeless

Plan to have a frame bag, bar bag, a small-ish saddle bag, bivvy bag, trying to keep it as light as possible.

Opinions on bike choice would be welcome considering the charging of batteries etc....I'm not that bothered about potential frame damage / rub on the 'good bike' as I am probably going to get it repainted at some stage and it has a few minor scratches already.

And would also be interested in feedback from anyone who has cycled the event in the past. Experience, preparation etc....

I’m in the market for some new pedals, having happily ridden Look X-Tracks for a number of years. I’m strongly considering the Wolf Tooth CTRL pedals due to the larger platform even though it’ll be for a road/gravel bike. I like my X-tracks over Shimano pedals precisely because they have a bit more contact area, and the weight of the CTRL pedals is actually less than my X-tracks. I’ve got good shoes, so the added stiffness from a larger platform isn’t really the concern, it’s more about comfort over long/multiple days.

Anyone have hands-on (foot-on?) experience with these, or similar experience going to a larger platform?

Also: yes I know the ALT pedals are more comparable to X-track, my question is really about the possible additional benefit of an even larger platform than I have now.

I have just been diagnosed with gallstones (ouch), possibly triggered by a diet change & 10kg weight loss in prep for my first ultra. I have been increasing my intake of high protein food (dairy, nuts, meat) during training days to aid recovery, but this off course also increased fat intake.

Now that needs to change, which is a bit of a challenge. What easily available low fat foods should I consider to keep my energy levels sufficient in rides, without triggering another gallstone attack.