Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad REPEATABILITY BEATS FTP? CX vs. XC POWER BREAKDOWN | Tobin Ortenblad | Ask a Cycling Coach 554
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Oct 9, 2025 Professional mountain and cyclocross racer Tobin Ortenblad joins Coach Jonathan Lee to dive into the world of cyclocross strategy. They discuss why repeatability in efforts trumps FTP, analyzing Jonathan's race file and sparking a lively debate on tactics. Tobin shares insights on navigating technical courses like Little Sugar, offering tips on tire choice and gear selection to maintain traction. With a unique perspective on power profiles, he highlights the differences between cyclocross and XC racing, making this conversation a must-listen for cycling enthusiasts!
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Choose Durable Tires For Sharp Arkansas Rocks
- Do run more durable tires and add extra sealant for Little Sugar to avoid race-ending cuts.
- Avoid choosing a marginally faster casing if the course has razor-sharp rocks that will slice your tire.
Pro Flatting Example At Little Sugar
- Jonathan recalled Tom Pidcock flatted multiple times at Little Sugar after choosing fast tires and had to abandon.
- Tobin observed fast casing choices can backfire on rock-strewn courses compared to tougher casings.
Train VO2 And Repeatability For Punch
- Do include VO2 and repeated high-power on-off work to regain punch and repeatability after long diesel-style seasons.
- Do structure workouts with float sets, anaerobic on-offs, and longer VO2 intervals while keeping recovery weeks.