Welcome back everyone. As mentioned in the previous post I promised you that I would keep you updated on my tour for the three stages of XTERRA Europe ; Romania, Poland and Germany. You don't know what XTERRA is? I'll explain it to you very briefly. It's an off-road triathlon circuit, therefore mtb and trail running that replace the "classic" road cycling and road running of other triathlons, which takes place all over the world. The circuit I participate in is "confined" to Europe where a certain number of athletes, pros and amateurs, will come from who will have the right to participate in the world final in Hawaii at the end of October. In another episode I'll explain how it's done.

But today I want to tell you how I organized my trip and what materials I'm using. I brought with me two sets of wheels, a train Hyperlite and one Fusion Lite . They are two quite different wheels. The first obvious difference is the weight, the second is the internal channel, as well as the graphics and also the hub. Let's say that I mainly use the Hyperlite for training and the Fusion Lite for racing. Even though since they are two sets of wheels with different tires on the front I don't mind using them "mixed". Another difference I have in the assembly are the discs. Two lighter and slightly less performing pairs and two solid but heavier pairs with guaranteed results. Where and when do I decide? After trying the route. I almost always manage to arrive early for the races. So on Friday I usually try the MTB and trail running track and on Saturday I swim, that is, I quack a bit trying to find some references in the water. When you're alone it's easy, when you're in 500, every detail remembered to not lose your way is fundamental. Let's go back to the choice. I try the route and choose the tires. Often consequently the rims. The two rear ones have the same tires, the two front ones instead have different ones for different terrains. I don't regret a few extra grams of Hyperlite, 360-degree grip is essential for me. The race must be won first. If there are no particular problems on the course I opt for the Fusion, with smooth tires and alternating discs for greater safety at the front and an eye on the weight for the rear.

If the descents are particularly ruined, rocky, I opt for robustness and reliability in spite of the weight. In Romania it was difficult. On Friday the route was really very muddy, so not being able to change the tires, I had chosen the usual Fusion Lite rear with medium-grippy tire (I never fit mud tires) and the Hyperlite at the front which has a slightly more performing tire on slippery ground. On Saturday with the high temperatures and the many test laps of the athletes there was little mud left so I started off calmly with two Fusions and a very smooth tire at the front with the usual medium at the rear. An excellent choice, in hindsight, and an excellent final result. Fifth place in the category and 33rd overall . My final goal, that of qualifying for the World Championship in Hawaii, is getting closer. On Sunday, immediately back in competition in Poland for XTERRA Poland. We need points and maybe… a podium, who knows. See you soon.