How do I finish off a training plan going into a bikepacking race/trip

Racing
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1

I have been following a training plan since January with my A race being a 24 hour mtb race in July and my next goal being a 1600km bikepacking trip starting August 29. The route has approximately 20,000m of elevation and I am looking at it from a racing perspective (the route has never been completed before and there may be other riders attempting it the same days I am so the goal is to finish faster than they can).

I know TR does not seem to know quite how to prepare for something like a bikepacking race so I entered it into my calendar as a 10 day stage race with a moderate pace.

My question is what would be the best way to finish off the plan going into my event?

Right now my calendar has me doing threshold, long supra threshold, and sweet spot this week, and supra threshold next week with an opener the day before my grand depart starts. I am wondering if this is the best approach to going into an event where I will likely be doing 150-200 watts 10-12 hours a day for 10ish days, or if perhaps I should focus on lower intensity endurance rides going into the event instead.

I am confident the training has given me the fitness to complete the event, my concern is now getting to the start line in the best condition possible to keep my pacing strategy throughout the whole thing.

Thanks

2

The TR plan sounds reasonable to me. Other than I am not sure one needs openers for a bikepacking trip. The SS and Threshold is going to build your fitness which raises your roof, so that your z1/z2 is going to be a little higher, or a little easier to complete at the same watts. Hope you enjoy the trip.

3

Hey @velodancycles :slight_smile:

It’s good to hear that the training has given you the fitness to complete the event!

I would create a two plans. One with your A Event in July and then one with your backpacking trip as another A Event if you’re taking this as a race you want to prioritize. This way it will peak you again with the small window you have between events. You’ll probablt just be given a Specialty Phase which is where you want to be anyway so that you keep that freshness and don’t over do it.

Entering it as a Stage Race is the right call! So you’re all set there :slight_smile: