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Sorry, wrong app – that’s from my grindr
Now half of me is trying not to think about it and the other half is trying to figure out what FTP would be in context.
Me please
FTP 183
Weight 93kg
Thanks
Best off just considering the race result as a bit of a lottery I reckon but with the bonus of a good workout.
As you said, can generally hold my own but ftp numbers suggest otherwise.
Worth noting that Cavendish apparently had a crap ftp!
Now half of me is trying not to think about it and the other half is trying to figure out what FTP would be in context.
Feeling, Touching, Probing
I see ST are offering merch as prizes for 1st, 2nd and third.
Now it's serious.😐
I'm tempted but I also think the Maths on the road will make my head hurt!
Is Innsbruck the Hilly one because the descent on that one's already a pretty good equaliser
Yeap think Innsbruck is the hilly one. Though road to ruin has a fair kick as well 🙂
Obv the handicap will work differently there but if Nixie has to get an eight minute lead there I think that might be a tad ambitious!
Remember it's 8 minutes over the person with 0 not the person in second. I know what my tactics will be at the start though 😜🤮.
Talking of start I'm assuming this will be in a meet up? Pretty sure they don't start from the pens so will need an agreement not to go till the start.
Meetup has you on a trainer by the road side so should be fine for that.
It does spread you along the roadside though so there's every chance you'll have an extra 50m or so to cover...
Not going till the start is the most important bit. Glad you get put on a trainer.
Will be a blast. I may even taper and peak for events.
@yoshimi there are a couple of Daniel Ward's on Zwift - can you follow me then I know I have the right one!
@ico86 - I haven't seen a PM. Not sure if it didn't send so can you resend please.
I have a couple of new followers on Zwift who I haven't tied up to usernames but I am not missing any usernames so it could be the two above. Also make sure you follow me otherwise I cant invite you to the meetup.
A few more details which might address some of the queries below:
Registration Deadline
To give me time in advance of race 1 I need anyone who is entering to have provided me with your FTP and weight before midday on Sunday 30th August. This gives me time to work out the remaining handicaps. Also For the first race I am using tyke as the benchmark time so some people may have a positive handicap and some might have a negative. This saves me from redoing all of the ones I have already done. I will publish results which will have your official finish time, your handicap, your final time and your final position.
Race Starts
As mentioned above we will be using meetup view. This plonks you on the side of the road somewhere along a 100m stretch. In order to make this as fair as possible we will have a neutralised rolling start. When the counter reaches zero position yourself in a blob around the ride leader (highlighted by the beacon). I will pedal at 100W. As soon as I am happy that everyone is in a blob (I would hope this takes no more than 30 seconds) I will type 'GO GO GO' which will come up nice and big across everyone's screen and then you start pedalling like mad until you are sick or fall of the trainer.
Race End
Another Zwift peculiarity is that the end of the meetup doesn't always correspond with the official start/finish line for the meetup. In order for the results to register you need to cross the blue meetup banner which may be a few hundred metres past the official line. It is clearly visible on the map and nice and bright in front of you so you shouldn't miss it! When you pass it you will get an end of meetup screen which will give you you average watts and time to complete the meetup so you will definitely know when you have passed it.
I will re-post the info bits right before the races just to remind everyone. I will stop my own race about 1 minute before the end so that I can check everyone in and keep the chat channel live. I will add my time into the results for time but not any points standings so I become a neutral rider (I don't think it is fair to win my own competition where I am deciding the handicaps!). The limit on meetups is 100. We shouldn't get near that so if you cant make one I dont think you will be taking anyones place.
I will publish the results the same evening as soon as I have finished puking and I am able to breath again following the race!
Just followed you Robbo - cheers for organising although I will be missing the first one as on holiday
Got you both sorted now. Thanks. I did get the message ico86 but it came from Tim so I assumed hte usenrame was Tim!
Jerseys - we are in meetup only view so wear what you like. Maybe one day zwift will implement teams and we could have a STW jersey!
Bikes - ride what you like/have in your stable! Swap between races or try and choose the best bike for the course!
Sounds good, count me in.
Ok, I give up, how to send a PM, clicking on the username redirects me to the home page.
Followed on zwift via companion.
Anyways, 92kg, 270 ftp via zwift auto calculate, zwift: Ant Mitchell (vCCXXL)
Robbo,
As a side note, i see that plenty of other 'organisations' have races on ZP, so maybe it could be possible to set up something with ZP/Zwift where STW becomes a race organiser. It wouldn't help with the handicap system you're using of course as we couldn't have 25 different Cats... But it would mean we could in the future use ZP/Zwifts Cat system for races assuming people were happy racing within their usual ZP cat.
There's alot of impressive power outputs on display here. I wouldn't mind giving it a shot but will no doubt be destroyed on any flat route
66kg
265 ftp
I think my tag is t.payne7783
im keen for this, although ive only ever used zwift for training so my race tactics will be completely non existent. what's your zwift name robbo1234 and ill give you a follow.
zwift alex fordo197
ftp 262
weight 74kg
thanks for taking the time to organise this too.
I think there's a 100% chance of me wearing the 'Bee' jersey in homage of the STW group rides!
my race tactics will be completely non existent.
That sounds like most zwift racing.
Rule 1) be in the front group
Rule 2) keep a bit in reserve for the end unless that means you'll break rule 1.
Sounds like great fun. Would love to give it a go.
Not done much Zwifting during the good weather.
Weight 96kg
FTP 302
James Orsborn
I'll give it a try!
count me in please, it the day after my usual longish Monday real ride out but it should act as motivation to add an extra effort.
My FTP according to zwiftpower is 242 I am 80kg at the mo.
John Kirk (STW)C 9157
Has anyone else got a big FTP discrepancy between Zwift and Zwiftpower?
From what I can see Zwift calculates and updates your FTP (although I think you get asked if you want to apply the update) - but this isn't passed through to Zwiftpower
Mines only 300 on Zwiftpower v 344 on Zwift
Zwiftpower is a manually entered FTP. You find it under settings on your profile. I dont believe that it autoupdates.
I have got everyone who has replied or PM'd me now I think. Up to 45 entries.
As Scaredypants said up there, I would at best be an occasional taker-parter but would like the chance to join in if/when I can.
Steve Ross STW
80kg, FTP 253.
Thank you for this!
I've just attempted a zwift ramp test and I achieved a lower score than before!
Rick M, 78kg, 215w (was 233w)
The way I found my FTP prior to the test was to go to the workouts section of the zwift menu and select a FTP or ramp test and it shows your current figure against the graphic of the test.
Thks for organising Robbo - sounds great. Will get involved just need do a ramp test and see what the ftp is.
I'll have a play with this for a bit of fun 😉
380w
76kg
Charlie Revell (Tor2K|Kalas) on Zwift
Assume you are running it under the new Meetup Race function rather than open races?
ZP auto updates your FTP if you don't enter one.
I'll have a go. I gave up on a local meetup TT series as the dumbtrainer people were making a mockery of the results. Handicap will adress this so everyone can play realatively on a level playing field.
Already following you.
Weight currently 78kg.
FTP on ZP 261w
Just asked to follow you. Real/Zwift name is Douglas. FTP = 317 and I’m 92kg.
May I join in to please?
Laurence Abbott IRC on Zwift
90kg
290 FTP
Thanks
Cheer all. I have updated with the latest to join. Up to 53 participant's.
ZP auto updates your FTP if you don’t enter one
Didn't know that, just wiped my manual entry from 12th July and it's given me an estimated FTP, bit lower than it was and almost certainly still too high given I've been under orders not to push it for over three weeks.
ooh.... good numbers here!
I'll have a real effort at setting up the twitch live stream...
my twitch channel is drpidgeon but will stick up the link for you ask to watch and enjoy!
I'll have the cast off in time for the first race.. but my left arm is so wasted and thin!!
looking forward to it!
DrP
but my left arm is so wasted and thin!!
I guess there's been minimal sausage handling in the last month or so.
ZP auto updates your FTP if you don’t enter one
Didn’t know that, just wiped my manual entry from 12th July and it’s given me an estimated FTP, bit lower than it was and almost certainly still too high given I’ve been under orders not to push it for over three weeks
Without looking it up I assume it's based on last 90 day figures. You must have a rogue one in there somewhere?
Plus Zwift Power is 95% of best twenty minute during a race whereas Zwifts could come from a twenty minute effort in a race/meet-up/free ride or ramp/ftp test which Zwift Power wouldn't have access to I think?
@tomlevell I think Zwiftpower is using 95% of my best 20mins from six weeks ago to the day (9th July), British Cycling TT event on Zwift, which I followed up on the 12th by doing an outdoor ride short blast that included a best 20mins which was 5W better. Used my 4iiii for both.
I'll have a go cheers:
Weight: 80KG
FTP: 230
Just starting a ramp test on Zwift. Will be amazed if I mage >180w...
We'll see!
214w and 74kg...
Sign me up, please. I think I am following you, but I'll check...
K Allen Stumpy01 STW
Cheers stumpy. Got you added. You easily beat 180w!
I’m in, well done for organising.
Zwift name:Declan Fee 5150
FTP: 270
Weight: 84kgs
I'll give this a go..
Weight 82kg
FTP : 205
will PM you my zwift details
I'm keen for showing myself up.
Ftp240 and 110kg.
Thanks for organising this.
Just knocked out a quick ramp test, so am ready to join the Race of Champions.
Garry Lager, Ftp 320W @ 94kg.
Interested
Ftp 293 outside. Probably less indoor but roll woth it
Weight 70
Its val Gough on zwift im folling ya
Thanks for series Itll b fun
Val
THis is going to be bonkers !
I'm struggling with laptop at the moment and can't get it/usb to work properly at all, so i've been using bluetooth and my phone, which means i don't have a HRM either.... Need to come up with a plan as i can't race without a HRM, well, i can in this series, but not in Crits.
Got you thanks Val. Cheers for the info Garry and Whirld.
weeksy - no issues with HRM on this series. You can get a coospoo one cheap on amazon which does Bluetooth and Ant+ which might be an option? Next day delivery as well.
Hi,
Cheer for organising this - sounds like a great event.
I'd like to take part. Down as Stephen Robinson on Zwift.
FTP is 323W
Weight is 76kg
Will follow you on Zwift shortly.
This is going to be a monster group at the start. When are the invites going out as I'm away this weekend?
I will prob put the invite out tomorrow evening as it will give time for anyone that I have missed! You are only allowed to create 3 meetups a day so I will send out the first 3 tomorrow and then the next ones in a week or so.
Count me in please...
Mat Pewsey
FTP – 246
Weight – 84kg
I have followed you on zwift
Thanks robbo
Hi I have DM'ed you, and followed you on zwift, can you please add me as well robbo?
@andeh - I have you down as an entry but dont have your FTP and weight. Can you let me know please.
Spreadsheet linked below with your forum username and the handicap you will receive at the moment. Please note this may change as it depends on the predicted times and sign up isn't closed yet. Let me know if I have missed you off and I will resolve it for you! Final handicap will go out on Mondau evening.
Invites to the first 3 races will go out tomoz evening so again if you dont receive one let me know.
I have checked my predicted times against some of your race times and it is a pretty good correlation so fingers crossed the handicap system works! There are some good groups split across the time range so you should find someone a similar pace to you who can push you along the route.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1zXYe-yQSG8429UxPsAC0ipwjXs8rJtBvlqHxFpLBlaE/edit?usp=sharing
Yep, sorry, trainer transition teething issues.
77kg
250w
Cheers Robbo
Hi Robbo, you must have missed my earlier “Yes Please”.
I’m following you already (P Woods STW) I think.
250 Ftp and 69kgs.
Thanks both have added you on.
w00dster - sorry for missing you first time round.
I have sent out the meetup for Race 1. Let me know if you haven't got the invite. I will just do Race 1 at the moment as then once Race 1 is over I can send out the invite for Race 2 etc using the same distribution list.
There are a couple I couldn't invite as I don't think you are following me - forum name listed below. Follow me on Zwift and then I can send the invite.
@scaredypants
@haloric
@tpbiker
@r8jimbob88
@Blackflag
I'm up for this.
I have a smart trainer and Zwift account but I've never managed to understand what to actually do. SO many accounts, apps and options, in the end I just gave up and rode sufferfest. I'll have another go working things out at the weekend and get you numbers that you need
Is there an idiots guide to starting out on Zwift anywhere?
Wow... Pulling 12 mins out could be fun over 15 miles.
Might take Monday as a rest day!
This is pretty good - its not all that difficult to get going https://zwiftinsider.com/getting-started-smart-trainer/
@charlierevell yeap going to be a touch optimistic I think. Though looking at a one lap race I did on Douce France (i.e. the reverse of R.G.V) the lead A was 32 minutes with the lead D at 40.24 so if we assume 0 handicap is low D then that is in the right time frame. I think the real problem towards getting that gap will be numbers to draft sufficiently (while also escaping from those with similar power on the flat but less handicap). Going to be tough to manage that.
Turn off drafting to make the handicapping work better? People can then choose road bikes if they want, rather than just TT bikes.
Don't know if this can be done for team meetup events, but there are some events on Zwiftpower like the above (without the handicap start times).
I’m still turboless. Expecting a Wattbike to be delivered W/C 14th Sept though!
Make the series TT bikes only to make the handicapping work better?
It's just a smash fest then rather than a race with tactics.
The first event is always going to be an experiment and the handicap has to start somewhere.
Charlie - yours was one of the times I checked and my predicted time was near enough bang on for what you did on a race on the same course (or reverse course I cant remember now).
The drafting does add some complexity but you should end up with some similar riders to race against in any case. You can choose a TT or a road bike (or mountain if you want a disadvantage).
I will list the results in terms of zwift ranking A through D as well as overall time and the handicapped time. If I find the predicted times are way of the actual time recorded then it will be an issue but hopefully we can see a good correlation. I will add the zwift category to the spreadsheet as well (based on the info you have provided not historical races or zwiftpower as not everyone uses that).
Great Work Robbo - I think we all appreciate the work you must be putting in on this!
I have accepted the invite. I think I have only done one race previously on Zwift; not including the STW Hare & Hounds rides!
I think we all appreciate the work you must be putting in on this!
Second that.
Charlie – yours was one of the times I checked and my predicted time was near enough bang on for what you did on a race on the same course (or reverse course I cant remember now).
The drafting does add some complexity but you should end up with some similar riders to race against in any case. You can choose a TT or a road bike (or mountain if you want a disadvantage).
I will list the results in terms of zwift ranking A through D as well as overall time and the handicapped time. If I find the predicted times are way of the actual time recorded then it will be an issue but hopefully we can see a good correlation. I will add the zwift category to the spreadsheet as well (based on the info you have provided not historical races or zwiftpower as not everyone uses that).
I've no issues in the time gaps, looking forward to the challenge! be interesting to see how the splits break down as thats what normally happens in the first 5 mins.
Fairly flat course this week so it should bunch up. Innsbruck could be different!
If I find the predicted times are way of the actual time recorded then it will be an issue
No it won't, absolutely no issue at all. It definitely won't be perfect, some will find they get on better than expected, others will find it tougher than expected - I'm looking forward to the gloating, the ribbing and the inevitable the cries of 'it's not fair!!' - all part of the fun!!
And a massive thanks Robbo for this - brilliant effort.
Having run 2 leagues via ZP for the South West this summer, I totally appreciate the work put in to run this.
The great thing to see is a large number of entrants. How you adapt and change to suit will be interesting.
The Idea of riding a TT bike could be fun, but unfair on the others. Could work well on a flat course to prevent people sitting on. 😉
I’m looking forward to the gloating, the ribbing and the inevitable the cries of ‘it’s not fair!!’ – all part of the fun!!
I completely agree. I'm in this for the laughs and banter, I am definitely not taking it serious, it's just for fun!
@nixie in the same race you put just under 4 minutes into me which is spookily enough the handicap.
I might have missed this point, if it's been raised already...
Are we using 95% of our best 20mins in the last six weeks for FTP, or an actual "hour of power?" I don't know if this applies to others, but for me 60mins of riding is pretty much always lower than 95% of 20mins (although from just before my back abscess surgery, they were 261 vs 263, they've only once been closer in the past ~2.5 years and usually there is a ~25W difference).
Organising handicap events can be an absolute ballache, with people moaning at their handicaps relative to others! 😆
I sorted out a handicapped tournament for the snooker club ~20 years ago, simply basing handicaps multiples of 8 points. Ended up with a final between the best player in the club by far, who had the real potential to turn pro (Bob Cooper, from near Portsmouth) and one of the weaker players (Lorenz IIRC) in the club... In hindsight, I probably didn't make the event challenging enough for Bob and a bit too easy for Lorenz. Bob played the best level of snooker I've seen in person over a multi-frame match, to win the final.
95% of 20 mins will be what most people have used or a ramp test. I think someone found their ftp in zwift as well if you are on the main application, click on the menu button in game, under your name is the edit symbol. if you click on that you can find your FTP that zwift has assigned and it will update that if you do any efforts above that value.