How did the Swiss course differ from the one in France?

The Swiss course was half the distance, but steeper than the French one. Average speeds were also much higher this time round (76km/h compared to 56km/h), with top end speeds remaining the about the same around 90km/h. The course suited my strengths and allowed me to dominate from the outset. It was certainly not due to lack of strong contenders, as all the previous Road Rage event winners were present: Guillaume Gaulandi, Switzerland 2008; Mauro Bettin, Italy 2009 (2005 XC World Cup Marathon Champion); Fédéric Moncassin, France 2009 (Double Tour de France stage winner and yellow jersey wearer); and Thomas Schäfer (Double German National 4X Champion). The top half of the course included 6 hairpin turns demanding good technical skills, with the bottom half of the course containing 4 sweeping bends culminating in the finishing straight, catering for the all out blistering pace of a lightning sprint finish.

Having placed 2nd (bettering the 6th from France) what do you think you have learned this time around 

As this was only my second Road Rage race, I'm still on a learning curve. I think you need to tailor your riding style and approach to tactics to suit the course on a case by case basis. After coming so close to a place in the finals in France, I knew I was in with a good shout this time around. I didn't expect to qualify top of the pile considering the strength of the field, even more so, as I didn't ride to the absolute limit during the qualifiers, prefering not to take too many risks at this early stage. I experimented with tactics from lessons I had learned in France last month, but have concluded the best chance you can give yourself is to ride your own race. Riding defensively gives a greater risk, as it lets others get a look in when I might have been able to tie up the win. Ride your own race and you don't have to worry about the other riders and can concentrate fully on your own performance.

Have you got any plans to modify your gear to help you go even quicker (details)?

If I manage to land a sponsorship deal for 2010, then I will happily ride the gear I am provided with. I would like to have a full custom machine built up, with the sole purpose in mind, to race Road Rage events. The geometry will be tweaked to make the handling super quick and aggressive, with the frame made from most advanced materials around to maximise rigidity for optimal power transfer. It will be the ultimate speed machine!

Have you heard any news for a continuation of the event in the new year?

I spoke to the organisers after the event and was assured that everyone who signed up this year would be informed of next year's event as soon as details become available. You can be sure to see me in the thick of the action next year again!