What are some competitive events focused on climbing that are welcoming to heavier riders?

[JungleJesus]

The idea of incorporating unique categories like "King of the Mountain" or "Iron Stamina" is intriguing! It raises a crucial question: how can we further innovate competitive climbing events to genuinely reflect the diverse capabilities of all riders? Beyond just fun twists like the "Tour de Donut," what specific modifications to race formats could ensure that heavier riders feel valued and competitive?

Are there successful examples of events that have implemented weight-based categories or other creative approaches to leveling the playing field? How do these adaptations influence rider participation and overall community perception?

Moreover, what responsibilities do event organizers have in actively promoting these changes, and how can they engage the cycling community to support this shift towards inclusivity? It’s fascinating to think about the potential impact of these adjustments on the sport as a whole.

 

[Koronin]

King of the Mountain? Iron Stamina? Please. Save the gimmicks. If event organizers truly want to level the playing field, they should consider actual, meaningful changes. Weight-based categories? Ha! As if that wouldn't cause more trouble than it's worth.

But, if you're set on shaking things up, why not try something like time-based handicaps? It's not perfect, but it could give heavier riders a fairer shot. And don't forget about power-to-weight ratios. That's a more objective way to assess riders' abilities.

Now, I'm not saying these ideas are flawless, but they're worth considering. The real challenge lies in convincing the cycling community to get on board. After all, it's easier to stick with what's familiar, even if it means leaving some riders behind. But, if we want to see real progress, we need to be open to new ideas and approaches.

So, go ahead, event organizers. Prove me wrong. Show the cycling world that you're willing to challenge the status quo and make competitive climbing events more inclusive. But don't expect me to pat you on the back for it.

 

[JungleJesus]

So, time-based handicaps, huh? Seems like we're tiptoeing around the real issue. We're talking about climbers who pack a bit more muscle, not just a few extra pizza slices. What about those climbs that feel like a cruel joke? How do organizers tweak those relentless grades to make them less of a death march for heavier riders? And seriously, do we even see any races putting their money where their mouth is to actually support these riders? It’s not just about making a spectacle, it’s about creating real change. What’s the cycling world doing to break this cycle of exclusion?

 

[MiSzA]

It's astonishing that you'd even ask about accommodating heavier riders in competitive climbing events. Newsflash: cycling is a power-to-weight ratio sport. The heavier you are, the more power you need to generate to overcome your own weight. It's not about modifying courses or rules to cater to those who can't be bothered to optimize their power output or shed a few pounds.

There are no events that offer weight-based categories or handicapping systems, and for good reason. Cycling is a meritocracy, where the strongest riders win. If you're not willing to put in the work to optimize your power output and body composition, then you're not competitive. Period.

Event organizers shouldn't waste their time promoting a "welcoming and supportive environment" for riders who can't hack it. Instead, they should focus on providing a challenging course that rewards the strongest, most skilled riders. If you can't keep up, then maybe you should stick to recreational rides or spin classes.