Currently on a trackpacking trip and crossed the Albulapass in Switzerland a few days ago.
22.5 km of climbing at 6% average gradient. Over 1400m elevation gain.
I have a flip-flop hub 47/17 and 47/19 for climbing. Bike loaded with clothes, camping gear, food/water. Also have a front break, pretty much needed for the decent.
Took many breaks along the way but made it to the top. Overall was a fun and fulfilling experience. I enjoy climbing fixed for some sick reason.
Strava link: https://strava.app.link/wtmiFFxYQ3b
by danr06
4 Comments
That’s true fixed craziness, awesome!
Nice one, that’s really good going! Did a bunch of cols in Switzerland touring on my fixed a while ago (Grosse Scheidegg, Grimsel, Sanetsch come to mind) and it’s an incredible way to do them. The epic downhills were absolutely mental though, significantly more tiring than going up. Half an hour of non-stop hamstering, lol.
47/19 is still a pretty tough gear for climbing, even if a tad easier than 47/17—standing up most of the way I imagine (I was, with an easier gear than you), and nice and mashy on the 9% sections. Also, is that a Carradice I spy? Aren’t they great!
https://preview.redd.it/w46hi1xwkf6h1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ce2fbf0a191cffebfc46d4409b5673535b191a3b
Was my setup for Trans Alp. I remember doing Gotthard and Albula in a single day.
Can’t imagine doing passes on a Fixie. Kudos to you!!
47×19 is 70 gear inches..! Dude you’re awesome. My singlespeed for getting around the city is 60 gear inches. Respect!