marginal gains

Marginal gains for Sunday's race?

I've been trying out a 27 cassette and some challenge strada tyres.

2 days taking in a variety of climbs.

Day 1 - Komura Pass, Ogami Dake.

Day 2 - Ishikawa Pass, Isonobe.

The cassette is an emergency option. The 27 will be useful on 10% plus sections. Allowing me to keep momentum for Sunday's 14 km hill climb.

However, the final 3 gears are big jumps 21, 24 and 27. Compared to 21, 23 and 25 on my regular cassette. This means you have to stay in gear more for subtle gradient changes. Avoid overspinning.

The tyres are slicker and lighter. Even better if it's raining.

I'm a bit concerned by a lump on the front valve area though. Need to get Enosan's opinion...

Two days of rest now. Race on Sunday!

Wednesday's training: Road (86 km, 1,500 m climbing)

Thursday's training: Road (86 km, 1,300 m climbing)

Friday: rest day

Saturday: rest day