Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad 2025 Leadville Trail 100 MTB | Keegan Swenson vs. Average Rider | Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast 544
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Aug 11, 2025 Keegan Swenson, a professional cyclist and five-time Leadville 100 champ, shares his insights on race strategy, bike setups, and nutrition. He reveals the components that led to his impressive 5-hour 45-minute finish. The discussion covers hydration tactics, the importance of gear choices, and mastering the challenging climbs and descents of the Leadville Trail 100. Swenson's experiences highlight the mental endurance required in high elevation and the nuanced dynamics between experienced racers and average competitors.
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Keegan's Dominant Win And Time
- Keegan Swenson won Leadville in 5:45:35 on a rough, windy day.
- He finished within three minutes of the course record despite poor conditions.
Chose FullâSuspension After OnâCourse Testing
- Keegan tested both his hardtail and a full-suspension Santa Cruz Blur and never rode the hardtail at Leadville.
- He set a near-identical position with a very short, negative stem and used a 40T chainring for steep sections.
Use AutoâSuspension For Mixed Terrain
- Use auto-suspension like Flight Attendant to simplify riding across pavement and dirt and avoid constant manual changes.
- Run slightly firmer pressures and a bit less sag for Leadville-style terrain to balance efficiency and control.