I’m training to ride up Pikes Peak in August. I’m currently doing the Sustained Build Plan and will finish it next week. I’ve improved a lot in the last 6 weeks.
What should I do next? I’m thinking of continuing the Sustained Build Plan but customizing it to extend the intervals even longer.
Has anyone rode up Pikes Peak? What would be the best plan?
Time trial
I rode up Pikes Peak about nine years ago, and man… it’s a grind. The best thing you can do for training is focus on long, steady efforts. You’re basically climbing forever, and it just wears on you.
If you’re coming from sea level, don’t expect to hit your normal zones. I remember just turning the cranks over slowly and endlessly — nothing heroic, just keeping the bike moving. Muscular endurance is the big one here. Long sweet spot intervals are perfect. Mix up your cadence, and throw in both standing and seated work so your body’s ready for all of it.
Also, don’t sleep on the descent. If you don’t have a ride down, be ready for a long, twisty drop off the mountain. I actually had to stop halfway because it got so cold my hands were going numb. Luckily I had gloves, but still — bring layers. The weather can flip fast up there.
Hey @ChrisWalker5! Welcome to the forum 
I would recommend creating an Event/Race plan and marking your Pikes Peak in August as your A Event. I would also probably apply it as a Climbing Road Race as it’s built around exactly this: extended, sustained power output on long climbs. This will make sure your plan builds training leading up to your event so that you get there fresh and at peak performance!