The second rider to feature in our Merchants of Speed series is David Ross
A relatively new member to the club David is meticulous in everything he does and his approach to time trialling is no different. Whether it is in terms of training, equipment, or pre-event preparation. He leaves no stone unturned in the pursuit of a fast time!
Time Trailing Since: 2017
TT Rig & Setup: Another rider preferring a Giant Trinity with Di2 electronic gearing topped off with Q rings. Zipp wheels and an Aerocoach cockpit.
Helmet of Choice: David currently wears an S Works helmet but has his eyes on a Kask Mistral.
Favourite Course: The Frosses Road 10m TT. It’s a great course for pacing yourself with 4.5 miles on the outward leg followed by 5.5 miles on the return leg. I also really like the Warrenpoint > Newry Carriageway – reputedly the fasted course in Northern Ireland.
Favourite TT Distance: Being the sadist that he is David loves the pain of a 10-mile TT. However, he does find the 25m TT good as it gives you a bit more time more to settle into a controlled and relaxed rhythm.
Personal Best For A 10: 21mins 9 secs ( we think this is a time which is sure to be bettered this season going by the winter training regime).
TT Bling in the Trophy Cabinet: For the most part Time Trialling is a solitary sport of you against the clock. However, one of the aspects that David enjoys most is the comradery with clubmates at events. As such winning a Gold Medal in the Ulster 10m TT Championships 2022 as a member of the Banbridge CC Team comprising of Erwin McKee and Marcus Christie is a medal he treasures.
Goals for 2023 Season: To participate as often as possible with clubmates at various events and crack the 21-minute barrier. Would also like to give the 50m TT championships a shot!
Do you have any speed tips you’d like to share with your fellow testers? Show up and focus on your own objectives. Forget about everyone else once you get to the start line. 80% is in the head, manage the head, and train consistently.
The all-important final question. Shaved legs, Yes or No? Yes
Thanks for taking the team to talk to us David. Never mind cracking the 21-minute barrier – based on your performances last year a sub 20 is not an unrealistic expectation. Ride on!
