Alex Paton

The tactical hunt for marginal gains When the clock starts, nature and physics don't care about your intentions. In a time trial, every second is a battle against air resistance and mechanical friction. Si Richardson understands that facing a rival like Alex Paton requires more than just raw power; it demands a bike optimized for absolute efficiency. The psychological warfare of racing often begins in the workshop, where hours are spent ensuring the machinery can survive the violence of a maximum-effort sprint. Reclaiming data with the power meter Data is the only objective truth on the road. After previously stripping his bike of its power meter to experiment with a 1x drivetrain, Si realized that flying blind in a competitive race is a recipe for disaster. By sourcing a new power meter that allows him to keep his preferred Shimano Dura-Ace pedals, he regains the ability to pace his effort perfectly. In the mountains or on the flats, knowing your exact wattage is the difference between a calculated victory and a total physical blowout. Bigger gears and ceramic precision To push the boundaries of speed, Si upsized his chainring to a 52-tooth beast. This modification ensures he won't run out of gears on fast descents or tailwind sections. To further minimize the drag in his drivetrain, he integrated CeramicSpeed jockey wheels. This isn't just about smooth shifting; it's about neutralizing the technical advantages held by his competition. When the margins are this thin, ceramic bearings provide the friction reduction necessary to keep the chain moving with minimal resistance. Rolling on wide performance rubber The contact patch is where the rubber meets the grit of the road. Si opted for the Vision Metron 60 SL wheelset, paired with Pirelli P Zero Race RS tires. Choosing a 30mm tubeless setup is a bold move that reflects modern racing trends. While some might argue a 30mm tire is too wide for a pure time trial, the increased volume offers better vibration damping and lower rolling resistance on real-world surfaces. If this setup works for elite riders like Mathieu van der Poel, it can handle the punishment of a local race. Conclusion Preparing for a race isn't just about the physical training; it's about the relentless pursuit of equipment perfection. Si Richardson's setup proves that even seasoned riders must constantly adapt their gear to stay competitive. Now, the only thing left is to see if these modifications can translate into a winning performance on the tarmac.