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Wrenchin' in the USA: The Chris Davidson diary 2005
Chris Davidson is a mechanic for Shimano Multi-Service doing neutral tech support at road and mountain bike races..
Chris' diary entries show us what life is like inside the pits and give an insight into the mind of a mechanic.
World Championships - Spain, September 24, 2005
Showtime at worlds
Hi all,
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Right now it's after midnight local time and I am still trying to complete the tasks of the day. Race day can be very stressful for the mechanic. Up early, pre-race prep, ride in the race car, post race [wash, pack, shuttle to airport, etc]. The bikes went well today and we didn't have any problems on the course; for this I'm happy.
Our team didn't get the result we desired today on the road. We were well positioned and had the muscle to attack when the race got hard. I feel extremely fortunate to work with some dedicated and focused athletes, daily they amaze me with their ability to push their own limits. I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to work with these outstanding people.
Tonight has been one of the hardest work days yet. Wash and pack all the bikes, swap wheels and cassettes back, and locate and reinstall various parts. On top of that some interesting things came my way tonight, see the pictures.
Long day tomorrow with the men's race and a 15+ hour drive to the U23 service course in Belgium, and then I fly home from Brussels on Tuesday. Spain has been enjoyable; I'm not looking forward to the drive, but am excited to fly home and reconnect with my wonderful girlfriend. Life on the road takes a toll.
Next up for me, Vegas and Interbike. Never a lack of pure insanity there - I can't wait.
Ciao from Madrid,
Chris Davidson
Photography
For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here
Images by Chris Davidson
- A Giant Advanced Track frame was the visitor to our service course in Madrid tonight.
- Aluminum dropouts with steel surfaces: light with bite.
- A custom cut-to-length seatmast with a aluminum binder on top
- Deep, thin stays with a tight wheel cutout in the rear
- Big, thick and stiff everywhere
- Aero headtube, internal headset and aluminum steerer on the fork
- Beefy... everywhere.
- Big aero section stays in the rear should be mega stiff
- Hmmm, multiple sizes with custom layups for varying stiffness - interesting…
