It’s 3 months now since I started riding my RedChilli and it’s a huge difference to my riding comfort, my performance and my enjoyment. Having been riding a double chainring and 10 speed setup for years, I’m now on a compact 11 speed – it gives me so many more options in the hills. Best of all, I have a 30 at the back too, meaning that I can spin on the hills – and yes, we have lots of hills here in Transylvania and Romania. Sibiu is not only a beautiful historic city, it’s a centre for cycling, due to the wonderful rides nearby and the number of amazing road climbs. In a few short weeks the UCI will be here, with the 3 day Tour of Sibiu and some of the best cyclists in the world – all riding the local roads that me and my RedChilli explore every day
I’m looking forward to using my RedChilli WR1 more in the local climbs; roads like the Transalpina, Paltinis and the Transfargarasan! All beautiful mountain roads, with forests that give way to green mountain meadows as I climb. The new gearing setup on my RedChilli has already benefitted me, with the greater range of options – both when climbing and descending. Me and my team mate Gabi, went on a route which will be part of the 2nd Stage of Sibiu Cycling Tour. The stage starts in Sibiu, to Medias, to Avrig and the finish is at Balea Lake where the Road Transfagarasan is. But we only cycled a quarter of this 2nd Stage route. The beginning of our route starts with a constant medium climb with many twists and turns through the picturesque villages that lie all over the countryside here in Romania- especially in the Sibiu area.
The RedChilli performed perfectly on these climbs, like as I expected. My WR1 has a 11 speed cassette and a 50-34 double chainring setup, meaning that it’s custom built for climbs. It’s easier for me now to climb with this compact group set.
Riding on the lower countryside roads was very relaxing and pleasant due to the historical vibe, the quiet roads and the cosy looking houses. It makes me think about my grandparents, who lived out in the country side too. After the twisty climbs, we turned left to cycle between the green lands. Everything was green with lots of flowers on the side of the harvest fields; one of my favourites is the red poppy flower. Between these fields the road was flat, and perfect for some sprinting. The Red Chilli felt like a rocket under me – so fast and so light! What a pleasure it is to ride it on these amazing roads! We made a lil stop afterwards to admire the nature more up close.
During the break, two adorable puppies decided to join us as we rode through the village. The scenery was so lovely, and the sun was going down; the sky was purple and everything was green and colourful. After the worthy break where we admired everything around us, we said goodbye to the puppies and went back on the same route we came. After some time on the flat road, the previously climbs from where we started were now the descents for us to enjoy. This is my favourite part, as I love descents and speed – the perfect combination. Going down the handlebars, making an aero position, and then shift for the heavier gears and push the pedal!
I’m a huge fan of the fully integrated one-piece carbon handlebar/stem. The shape is so aero and ergonomic, and so very comfortable on both upper and lower position on the bike. The length of the bars were custom made to fit my size, meaning that it is super comfy to ride a bike with exactly precise custom made measurements and size. Getting a properly measured and custom fit bike does make all the difference. If you can, always get a bike fit and have your bike adapted to you – after all, we are all unique!
After the ride, I di a full stretching session, which is always a wise thing for everyone. Make sure that the body is looked after when you’ve been exercising. Then, I treated myself with a delicious lemonade – I earned it!
Yes, my home is very special and beautiful, and I’m filled with happiness when riding the meadow lined roads lower down amongst forests and lakes, and enjoying the beautiful cycling of Romania – maybe you should visit soon and see for yourself 🙂
You can fly directly to Sibiu from London and other international cities. Brasov also now has an international airport, and of course, you can fly into Bucharest. Why not take a look at the rides we have in Romania, shown here on our website, and let’s explore adventures on 2-wheels together!
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