At last year’s 24 Hours of Exposure young Josh Ibbett set a blistering early pace, throwing down the gauntlet to the other title contenders from the off. Despite eventually tiring and fading to finish third, Josh showed the promising form he possesses.

Asked on how best to prepare for a 24-hour race, he gave these answers:

Bikemagic: What are you top preparation tips the night before the 24 hour race?

Josh Ibbett: Night before… rest and eat! Make sure everything is ready for the morning. Apply a thick layer of chamoix cream to the shorts so it soaks in! Eat more and go over race day plans in your head so nothing is unrehearsed on the morning of the race.

BM: What are your nutrition tips for riding/racing a 24 hour solo race?

JI: Before [the race] carbo load four days up to the race. I try to put on at least a kilo. Morning of the race a big bowl or muesli… then another! Leave plenty of time to digest before the race.

During, at least one gel and one bottle of 4:1 drink per lap. Plus salt and vinegar Snack a Jacks (snack size) per lap and a few bites of a Torq bar. Later in the race any low fat real food which suits is good, i.e. a nice big bacon sandwich!

BM: I’m not sure how to pace myself in a 12 or 24 hour race? What’s the best approach

JI:  Stay aerobic, nice and steady. Ride easy and shift up one gear easier than you think you should be in. Then try and stay in the same gear for each section of the race for the whole race…. it’ll hurt at the end!

BM: To carbo-load or not to carbo-load?

JI: Yes.

BM: Should I make any modifications to my bike for the event?

JI: Not really, just make sure it is the right bike for the job…i.e. full suss 29er, as light as possible but not at the risk of breaking stuff.

BM: Clothing: What’s the best kit to wear?

JI: Obviously Torq kit! Arm warmers at night, maybe knees. Gilet if it gets cold but as long as you are moving you will stay pretty warm.