Have You Thought About Getting a Recumbent Bike?
August 14, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Certainly you've seen folks riding recumbent bikes on the roads and bike trails. Have you ever considered what goes into these bicycles, and what it take to ride them? Here's the lowdown with a lot of tips to keep in mind.
A recumbent bicycle is a bicycle that places the rider in a laid-back reclining position. For most riders, the advantage of riding a recumbent is that it is more ergonomic; positioning the riders weight more comfortably by distributing it over several square feet of the back and buttocks. On a traditional upright bicycle, the body weight rests on a few square inches of the sit bones, the feet, and the hands.
With the right equipment and design, recumbent bikes can be used for riding unpaved roads and offroad, just as with conventional mountain bikes. Because of their longer wheelbase and the manner in which the rider is confined to the seat, recumbents are not as easy to use on tight, curving unpaved singletrack. Large-diameter wheels, mountain gearing and off-road specific design have been used since 1999 on the Lightfoot Ranger. Crank-forward designs that facilitate climbing out of the saddle, such as the RANS Dynamik, also can be used off-road.
Highracers are distinguished by using two large wheels (usually two ISO 559 or 26"). This necessitates a higher bottom bracket than on a lowracer so that the rider's legs are above the front wheel, and this in turn requires a higher seat. The seating position may be otherwise identical to that on a lowracer allowing similar aerodynamics. "Racer" in the name implies that this will often be the case, since these bikes strive for speed.
Starting and stopping. Because of the supine position, most recumbents do not allow the rider to push forward with the feet on the ground. This makes for slow starts and requires excellent balance. However, since starting a bicycle by pushing the feet against the ground is probably a poor way to start, this criticism may invalidate itself. Starting a recumbent does not require great strength; it is a matter of balance and a skill which must be learned. It is best to learn from an experienced rider, who can help with a little push at first. Several rides may suffice to become confident enough of one's starting and stopping skills before becoming ready to ride in traffic or perform uphill starts. Recumbent tricycles do not require balancing and hence do not require any special skill in this regard. With many recumbent seats quite low it is often easier to get a foot down onto the ground on stopping than is the case from a conventional bike with the saddle set high for optimum pedaling.
Constant position. While the riding position is comfortable and removes stress from the arms, it cannot easily be varied during a ride (as upright riders might stand for a hill), and some find that bottom brackets at or near hip level produces problems with cold or numb feet. Some riders suffer "recumbent butt," a pain in the gluteal muscles caused by their increased effort while being compressed. This can usually be addressed by adjusting the seat angle and pedal position. In a more reclined position, the weight is spread evenly between the back and buttocks. The rider of a conventional bike can stand up on the pedals to allow his legs to take up the shock of a severe bump in the road. The recumbent rider cannot (although many designs include suspension to alleviate this).
Visibility of the bicycle. In urban traffic, many recumbent bikes are below the eye level of many automobile drivers, although proponents suggest that the relative novelty of the design helps make drivers more conscious of them. Recumbent commuters often add flags, lighting, and reflective material to their bikes and gear to enhance visibility, and many refer to being able to see eye-to-eye with the automobile drivers as an advantage.
Nonstandard design. Recumbents often have radically different shapes from diamond-frame bikes, so conventional bike racks, automobile carriers, accessories, and locks do not fit in the usual ways.
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Exactly What is the Tour De France?
August 6, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Those of us who are not regularly attentive to competitive cycling events can't help but hear about the Tour De France from network and cable news and other media. Yes, it's the most famous of all the cycling races worldwide, but many really aren't aware of what it actually consists of, and how it works. Actually, it's a team sport with an overall winner. We hear about the yellow jersey. What's that all about? Here, in a nutshell is a summary that should help you understand what goes on with this grueling event.
About Le Tour De France
Le Tour de France was raced for the first time in 1903. One hundred plus years after its inauguration, it is the world's largest bicycle race. Each year, for 23 days in July, hundreds of cyclists pedal their way across France. Typically, the race covers more than 3,500 kilometers or 2,200 miles.
The race itself consists of 21 separately scored stages. At the end of the race, whoever has the lowest combined time over the 21 separate stages is declared the winner. During the race, the leader wears the Maillot Jaune, the yellow jersey. The stages run from one town to another. The route covers a circuit that goes across most of the regions of France. Sometimes the course even goes into parts of neighboring countries like Switzerland and Spain.
With the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a Espaa, le Tour de France is one of the three biggest, most prestigious stage races. It is also the longest race of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) calendar. Unlike the other two big races which are known well in Europe, the Tour de France has long been a household sporting name around the globe. It's so well known that even those not interested in cycling know of it. Even the UCI World Cycling Championship is familiar only to cycling enthusiasts.
In most cycling races, competitors enter as part of a team. The same holds true for the Tour de France. The Tour de France's field is made up of 20 to 22 teams each with nine riders. Traditionally, entry is by invitation only. The invitations are handed out only to the best of the professional teams. Recently, the organizers of the race have utilized UCI points to determine which teams gain automatic entry into the tour. They typically have reserved 2-4 slots to large teams or French teams not able to race based on their individual team results.
The teams are all known by the name of their sponsors. Everyone has a distinctive jersey. For example, Lance Armstrong was on the USPS team and then the Discovery Channel team when he won his tours. During the race, each team has access to a shared team car. These team cars are like pit crews in car racing except they're mobile.
The 2008 Tour de France is set to begin on July 5th in Brest in Brittany. The race, as is tradition, will end on the Champs lyses in Paris on July 27th. This year's race course has 10 flat stages, 5 mountain stages, 4 medium mountain stages, and 2 individual time-trial stages.
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You’ve Gotta Ride a Carbon Fiber Bike Before You Die
July 24, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Bicycle technology is continually seeing innovation, and the carbon fiber bike resides at the cutting edge. Many of these bikes see action in the Tour De France, some of which are highlighted below. These babies blend terrific rider comfort with maximum performance capabilities. We've included some listings of carbon fiber bikes available for sale which you'll see as you read the article. If you're a biking enthusiast, these bikes are well worth considering.
Carbon Fiber Bikes To Ride Before You Die
The benefit of cycling on a carbon fiber bike go way past any advantages it gives you in professional sports. Riding on a piece of the latest materials, shooting through a woodland path or humping through a steep hill section in your first time trial event, a Carbon Fiber Bike gives you the benefit - physically, mentally and helps you change from being an amateur to racing like a professional.
Take a Look at the Current Auction Listings for Carbon Fiber Bikes and Components
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More About Carbon Fiber Bikes
As with anything else, there are bikes and components that stand head and shoulders above the rest of the pack. They may be older models recognised for their reliability or bikes with the latest space age design and technologies, the world of cycling really is the same and features some makes of bike that MUST be ridden to appreciate them. Thumbing through the spec in a brochure is good fun, but riding them is totally different.
1. The TREK Madone: If you want to follow amazing cyclists like Mr Lance Armstrong, then owning and riding the TREK Madone bike is for you. The Madone model uses unrivaled technological innovations and designs that make it one of the better rides you can purchase. The Madone has helped riders win the Tour De France race lots of times in the past and the latest models are totally brilliant. With their special manufacturing process and the perfect blend of rider comfort vs efficiency, you must ride this bike today!
2. The Bianchi 928 Carbon K-VID: This bicycle from the Italian company Bianchi oozes speed, sophistication and reliability. Bianchi have been creating bikes for over 100 years and are still one of the companies that pro athletes choose. Bianchi's 928 Carbon K-VID model has helped win the Tour De France several times and is definitely one to ride in the flesh. The sexy lines of the Centaur Mix Compact model and it's special ergonomic frame design make it one of the best bicycles on the planet ever. If you had to buy one bike now - make it this one.
3. Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL2 Di2: This is perhaps the daddy of all bikes and possibly the most expensive too. The SL2 DI2 has all of the best components and technology that Specialized create - all packaged together into a lightweight and fast package. The Tarmac model has proved to be the cyclists choice of bike when it comes to balancing efficiency with strength and has been the leader in the Tour De France several times. With a minimum resistance frame, this bike will shoot you past the competitors to the finish line in a flash and it features a scientifically proven geometry design that means that each pedal you turn is used to the best affect.
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Bike the Pacific Northwest for the Ultimate in Cycling Heaven
May 24, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Did you know that one of the venues for the Ford Ironman competition is Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in the stunning northern panhandle of the state? One of the races in that event is a 112 mile bike circuit, part of which runs along the beautiful, mountain surrounded lakeshores of Lake Coeur d'Alene and Hayden Lake.
This illustrates just one instance of the terrific variety of magnificant bike trails that abound in the northwestern United States. In the article that follows, you'll find a brief description of the more enticing cycling trails in the region. You're sure to find something that will excite your quest for biking adventure. Read on for more information.
The Pacific Northwest is a Biker's Dream
The Northwestern part of the US is filled with bike trails that will appeal to all skill levels. It is no surprise that cyclists flock to that region for a biking fix. Some of the most popular trails are detailed in the article below.
The Burke Gilman Trail is located near Seattle, Washington. This 27-mile trail has long been a popular recreational spot for cyclists, runners, walkers, and skaters. As with many bike trails, it was originally a railroad built in the late 1800s. It was transformed into a trail in the late 1970s. Since it can occasionally be rather crowded with both cyclists and pedestrians, its best to go slow, keep to the right, and always be alert for others. Give audible warnings when passing someone and avoid pack riding.
If you are looking for a ride that is more secluded, the Marine Drive Bike Trail may be right for you. Although a small section of the trail is on the road, most of the ride is pretty uncivilized. The 17 mile long trail follows the Willamette River located in North Portland, Oregon and skirts along the trails of the Blue Lake Regional Park. The views and scenic hideaways are truly a treat, just be sure to come prepared.
The Route of the Hiawathas in Roland, Idaho is quite unique indeed. It is 15 miles in length and comprised of compacted gravel. It begins in Montana at the head of Taft Tunnel, a downhill, straight railroad tunnel. In all, there are about 8 tunnels and seven train trestles to cross, all on a downward grade. All along the trail there are signs outlining the history of the area. Helmets and proper lighting are required for all bikers and there is an $8 usage fee for adult riders.
Filled with gorgeous scenery, the 25 miles of the Centennial Trail is the jewel of Snohomish County. This is a great ride to enjoy with the kids. This paved path is also a former railroad and comes complete with restrooms along the way. In addition to its seclusion, this track is a relatively easy ride, so it is great track to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
Yet another Railroad of old is the Trail of the Coeur d Alenes. This former Union Pacific runs from Mullen to Plummer, Idaho. The scenery includes lakes and mountains and boasts 72 miles of beautifully paved trail. If you are traveling with young riders, this trail is a good path to take. Crossing through Heyburn State Park, the Coeur d Alenes will hopefully be connected to the Route of the Hiawathas.
From the newest of bikers to the most experience riders, there will definitely be something to suit your individual cycling tastes in the Pacific Northwest. Many of the trails are long enough to encourage you to take more than one trip, but there will surely be a unique experience each time.
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Seven Reasons Bicycle Riding Produces Quick Weight Loss
Doesn't it just stand to reason that cycling is good exercise? Not only will it produce fitness if engaged in regularly, but there are many benefits, not the least of which is that it's an activity that can help produce weight loss fast. There are a number of reasons for this. Read on for a more in depth examination as to why.
Seven Reasons Why Cycling Will Lead to Weight Loss Quickly
ARE you having problems losing weight like you want to? Are you working out a lot with little to show for it? Want to get a figure that others will envy and desire? This article will reveal seven secrets for your ultimate physique.
1. Cycling is good for you. It is one of the best ways to get fit and stay fit. And it is not just for young people. You get on a bike at any age. Cycling is a comfortable exercise, especially if you are not very fit. It allows you to get fit easily and safely without undue physical strain. And the great thing about cycling is that it makes you feel younger and reduces stress.
2. Cycle at a gentle speed of 12 mph on a flat road for an hour to lose 450 kcal. Do it twice a day and the numbers soon add up. If you don't exert yourself cycling will be mainly an aerobic activity. But going uphill is a different thing!
3. Cycling will tones your legs, strengthen your buttocks, and it will give you a level of fitness equivalent to being 10 years younger. If you get out into the countryside the roads will be quieter. Find roads with gentle gradients to cycle up. Nothing too steep though!
4. Regular cyclists live at least 2 years longer than others average. They also have fitness levels of people 10 years their junior. And they have better mental health and are healthier in old age.
5. Cycling can lower blood pressure. It can also reduce stress. It is a low impact activity and one of the safest ways to exercise without risk of over exertion or strain to muscles and joints. Any type of regular exercise is of benefit, but cycling is particularly good because fewer injuries occur as a result of it.
Cycling is easy on the joints because it is a non weight-bearing form of exercise. You can get an exhilarating feeling of speed and freedom with the right bike. Cycling is a more attractive form of regular exercise compared to doing workouts in the gym. Cycle to the gym for the warm up and warm down exercise!
6. Half of all adults do no exercise; of those one third are obese - and it is getting worse. Cycling is therefore an easy way for them turn around their lives for the better. It is a great way to get healthy, save money, beat traffic jams, and save the planet. Riding a bike can help you maintain a healthy weight. Cycling is fun, fast, green and healthy.
7. Weight loss can be significantly helped by regular cycling. Riding a bicycle will improve muscular fitness and blood circulation. 30 minutes a day 5 times a week which includes a bit of cycling that gets you out of breath will increase your life expectancy. It will ultimately control your weight, greatly reduce your chance of heart attack and stroke, and it will make you feel good.
Your ultimate body is within reach providing you follow the proven principles in this article. Having a lean body through cycling your way to fat loss is not a pipe dream or for those with the perfect genetic make up. Understand these reasons and do some cycling. Before you know it you could see a great figure staring back at you in the mirror.
Vic George has put together a complementary report on burning fat that will help you solve your weight problem permanently. To access it instantly please visit: http://www.perfect-health-guide.com/guide-to-losing-fat.html
Tags: aerobic activity, bicycle, bicycle fitness, blood pressure, Cycling, cycling exercise, fitness levels, losing weight, low impact, weight lossRelated posts
A Word About Your Bike’s Tire Pressure
There's a belief that greater tire pressure on your road bike will produce a faster bike. It seems, however, that there's some confusion about what is the proper bike tire pressure. Much depends on your weight and the style of riding you intend. Bottom line for most cyclists is riding comfort. We cam accross this article that delves into the topic in detail. Read on for more information.
Proper Tire Pressure
Tires are rated by their respective manufacturers for a given PSI often with a recommended and a maximum range. For the purposes of this, we'll be touching on the maximum PSI rating only.
The maximum PSI rating of a tire does not suggest that one PSI more will result in the tire blowing off the rim. It does however, indicates the strength of the bead and also builds in a buffer for pump gauge variance and rider weight.
In recent years we've seen many cyclists push for higher PSI tires thinking that the more pressure means a faster bike. In a fashion they are correct - the greater the PSI the less tire is in contact with the ground which translates to less rolling resistance. However, less tire on the ground also means reduced cornering and braking performance, and reduced comfort. You could argue that being comfortable on the bike might be equal to, if not more important then, the small change in rolling resistance and lets be clear we are talking SMALL.
Where the rubber hits the road
For the average rider it's pretty much whatever PSI they feel comfortable riding at. A rider at 170lbs can choose to run 80 or 90 PSI but also go up to 130 on a tire rated at 120 PSI. The risk is minimal that something will happen - however that's not to say it's not there. It's just reduced. As the 170lbs rider goes from 80 to 130 PSI they reduce the amount of contact the tire has on the road which will decrease breaking and cornering performance while increasing, slightly, their speed.
For light riders who are at or above the maximum PSI there can been undesirable riding characteristics. Most noticeable will be comfort. The same tire that the 170lbs rider put a little bulge in will stand tall for a light rider of 130lbs and not give to imperfections in the road. In this situation ride quality and brake/cornering performance are reduced. Reducing the PSI so the tire has a slight bulge while ridden will increase comfort and performance.
It becomes a balancing act for those of us at or above the 200lbs range or those wishing to run higher PSI then rated. It is a personal call. There are no hard and fast rules to follow. Going beyond the manufacturer's rating moves you into uncharted waters. One could view the maximum PSI as 100% but even if you believe the tire can be run at 120% the breaking point is unknown. Tire size and rider weight are not the only factors to gauge maximum PSI. That said some heavier riders have the need to run at or slightly above the maximum PSI to reduce pinch flats. See avoiding flats for more on pinch flats.
Something to consider
When you inflate your tire the PSI on the pump gauge does not include your weight. With a rider on the bike the PSI goes up and even spikes when riding. Bumps, pot holes, change in altitude, heat and the occasional bunny hop cause changes in the PSI. One of these in isolation is not likely to cause a problem, but when pushing the limits on the bead they all become factors of failure to consider when inflating your tires over the maximum PSI.
We Keep You Cycling recommends you run at or below the maximum PSI rating for your tire.
The Author is owner of We Keep You Cycling, they have the products that keep you riding, from continental grand prix 4000 to Michelin Pro 3 Race tires.
Tags: bicycle, bicycle tires, bike tires, Cycling, road bike parts, Road Bikes, tire pressureRelated posts
Evolution of Cycling as an Olympic Sport
February 15, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Cycling has been part of the Olympic Games since the first modern Olympics in 1896. There were less than two hundred and fifty athletes at these games, which featured nine disciplines - shooting, cycling, fencing, tennis, wrestling, weight lifting, gymnatics, athletics and swimming. The first modern games were held in Greece, and six cycling events were held, including the sprint, road race, time trial, ten km race, 100 km race, and twelve hour race.
There are a lot more cycling events in the modern games, including BMX, road races, track racing, sprints, cross country and more. Let's take a look at some of these cycling events and how they're integrated into the games of today. Their history can be very interesting to modern enthusiasts.
BMX
BMX racing, or Bicycle Moto Cross, is a relatively new cycling sport. It got started in California in the late 1960s, about the time that regular motocross was becoming a popular sport. The sport has only been included in the Olympic Games recently, with the International Olympic Committee deciding to include it in the 2008 Bejing Games as of 2003. BMX races in the Olympics are held on 350 meter tracks with obstacles like banked corners and jumps. Eight riders compete in each heat, and the top four in each qualify for the next round.
Road Racing
Bicycle racing in this form has been around since the first bicycle was given pedals. This sport was held at the first modern Olypics in 1896, on a marathon course. Riders completed two laps to cover eighty-seven kilometers total. Over the years, new developments were put into place, but it was a surprising ninety-eight years before women were allowed to compete in cycle races. Twelve years later, time trials were introduced at the 1996 games in Atlanta.
The Olympic bicycle road racing program is now made up of the men's and women's road races and time trials. They begin with mass starts, with men racing over a distance of 239 km and women over 120 km. Time trials are raced to get the most distance in a set time. Riders start at ninety second intervals, and women race over 31.2 km, with men racing over 46.8.
Track Cycling
This type of race is less familiar to most of us, with riders going around an oval track with a bank of forty two degrees. This is also called velodrome racing, and cyclists in this type of race wear unusual helmets and suits, and ride machines that look nearly futuristic. These bikes have poor maneuverability, but excellent speed, despite their looks. Spokeless disc wheels have been in use since the 1984 games, and in 1992, a bike weighing less than nine kilograms broke world speed records.
A new range of races was added in 2000, with women competing in a 500 meter time trial and men adding the Olympic sprint, Madison, and keirin. The entire track cycling program includes team and individual events, endurance races, sprints, time trials, pursuits and standard first over the finish line races.
Mountain Biking
Olympic mountain biking is also a relative newcomer - around only since 1996. This sport was only about forty years old at the time. Cross country riding uses a hilly and sometimes truly mountainous course on natural terrain, with riders needing to navigate over or around streams, trees, rocks and branches. Races for men are 40-50 km, and for women 30-40 km. Distances are decided the evening before the race, with officials deciding based on weather conditions and allowed times.
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Cycling as a Healthy Family Activity
February 13, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
It might seem like you have to give up on your family life, with the pace of today's world. However, even if work is taking up lots of time, and other activities keep creeping in, there are other options. Many people forget to take time with their families, but remembering to do it in your life can make a real difference in how happy and stress free you are.
That means that it's time to start putting fun time with your family first. One way to do that is to spend some time exercising with your family. Weekends are a great time to do this, and family cycling outings are the perfect way to do it. Physical activity is good for all of us, and most of us aren't getting enough of it. Getting some exercise and teaching your kids that activity really is important and fun are great things to do while spending some time together.
Anyone can go on a cycling trip, from grownups to small children. Kids too small to ride on their own can be strapped into a baby seat on the back of a bicycle to enjoy the ride. As kids grow up, they can use training wheels to learn to ride on their own, then graduate to regular bicycles. Everyone can have fun riding bicycles together, no matter where they are. Family cycling outings in the country are best, but you can also ride at home or on secluded streets near your home.
Your children will enjoy exercising with you, develop a new skill, and gain more self confidence when they realize that this is something they can do well. Starting early teaches your kids that exercise isn't something that's just done for looks, or another kind of work - it's fun, instead. Cycling together can by a great way to get in that family bonding that's so hard to find time for. You can even ride tandem cycles with your kids or your spouse - this is a fun way to take a ride and enjoy teamwork, too.
Always remember to wear safety equipment like a helmet when you ride together, and make sure your children know that a helmet is a must if they're going to go cycling. This will help make the outing a fun but safe one, and will help you avoid accidents.
Teach the rules of the road, and make sure your children learn how to signal and what the correct behavior of a cyclist is on the road. You should all be aware that cars don't always follow the rules, either. Make sure you're on the lookout for traffic if you ride on the pavement, whether in the city or in the country.
With just a little planning, cycling can be the perfect activity for any family, no matter how old or young any of the cyclists are. Adults can learn to ride, no matter how old they are, and children will enjoy this activity as well. Start your kids out right with physical fitness - go riding together as a family and enjoy cycling.
Tags: aerobics, bicycle, bicycle fitness, Cycling, cycling exercise, exercise, family activities, fitnessRelated posts
Major Brands of Racing Bicycles
There are nearly as many makers of road bikes as there are people who ride them, with major manufacturers includeing Giant, Cannondale, Le Mond, Trek, Bianchi, Specialized and more. If you're buying a new bike, look for a quality one that's well fitted to you, and don't cut corners. A clunky frame or ill fitted bike will only make you unhappy. Here are some of the basics on racing bicycles and their makers.
Racing or road bicycles are designed specifically for cycling on the road. They're built to be light weight and efficient, and to provide the best aerodynamics and ergonomics. This does mean that some racing bikes are more efficient than comfortable, with personal comfort sacrificed for speed. Drop handlebars should be located below the saddle, front and back wheels relatively close together, and gear ratios closely spaced to allow you to choose your preferred pedaling cadence.
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Other bicycles that you might see, but which aren't road bikes, are track bicycles, mountain bikes, cycle speedway bicycles, cyclocross bikes, hybrids, and others. Recumbant bikes are the fastest in the world on flat ground, but are excluded from the definition of road bicycles. Time trial bicycles are a subset of racing bikes, and triathlon bicycles are made for racers in triathlons, where time on and off the bicycle is just as important as the speed of the bicycle during a race.?
The quality of the wheels can greatly affect the performance of a racing bike, no matter what brand it is. Rims shaped to be more aerodynamic will be faster, but may produce drag on hills. Tires are usually narrow, to provide the least rolling resistance. Fewer spokes make for a faster but less strong wheel, but unusual spoke layouts and exotic materials may fix this problem. However, these race grade wheels are extremely expensive, causing professional racers to own less expensive ones for training.
There are several grades of racing bicycle manufacturers, varying in quality and price. For bicycles under a thousand dollars, Giant, Trek, Cannondale, and others. Each of these manufacturers make higher quality, more expensive bicycles. Bianchi, Colnago, Cervelo, and other high end bicycle manufacturers are there for those who truly want the best in racing bikes. However, these high performance machines are out of the price range of most beginning racers and road bike riders.
No matter what brand of racing bicyle you're looking for, it's important to make sure you get one that's put together well and suited for the kind of cycling you intend to do. Find a bike that will perform well under the conditions in which you're planning to ride it, and always make sure it's fitted correctly to your body. These factors are the most important for any rider, not simply price or brand name.
Tags: bicycle, bicycle race, cannondale road bikes, Cycling, giant road bikes, racing bicycles, racing bikes, Road BikesRelated posts
Tips on How to Avoid Cycling Injuries
February 9, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Cycling is one of the best types of exercise you can get involved in. It works for people of all ages and physical fitness lavels, and it's relatively affordable, though it can get expensive if you let it. Whether you're an enthusiast or just a casual rider, there are some dangers to cycling. If you take care and pay attention to a few things, however, you can avoid some of the most common cycling injuries.
1. Be sure to brake correctly. On a bike with lever brakes, place your hands on the ends of the levers and brake with the rear wheel first, not the front. This will prevent the bike from tipping and throwing you.
2. Don't stand on or hold down your brakes when going downhill for long periods. This could overheat the rims or the brakes, causing a failure or tire blowout. Instead, consider tapping the brakes lightly when you need to slow down.
3. Avoid long term pedaling in high gear. The gears are there for a reason, and high gears increase pressure on your knees. Knee injuries are a big deal, and it's important to avoid them!
4. Make sure you have a comfortable handle bar position for your bike. On most racing bikes, this is about three quarters of an inch lower than the seat top. However, some classic bikes have higher handlebars and should be ridden in a more upright position. Find the one that's comfortable for you and easier on your body.
5. Make sure you frequently change positions to avoid stiffness and muscle cramps.
6. Your arms and elbows should be loose. Bend your elbows so that any bumps are absorbed by the position. If you lock them, the strain will go straight to the joint and could cause a lot more damage.
7. Wear the right safety gear. That means a helmet, and possibly reflective vests or tape to make sure you're visible at night.
8. Make sure your bike is sized correctly to your body. Most people are riding bikes that are too small. A larger one can take some getting used to, but it's worth it in the long run.
9. Check pedal resistance. An experienced cyclist in good shape generally pedals at ninety to one hundred rpm. However, this is more than is generally expected from a beginner. Sixty to eighty revolutions indicates you have an acceptable resistance.
10. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluid will keep you from developing muscle cramps. That means consuming four to eight ounces of water or a sports drink every quarter to third of an hour you ride.
11. Listen to your body. The pain of exhaustion is a different pain from that of injury. If something feels wrong, don't just try to ride through it. Stop what you're doing, see a doctor, and find out how to avoid repeating or aggravating the injury. Cycling is a great way to get and stay in shape, but you have to do it correctly!
Tags: bicycle injuries, bicycle safety, Cycling, cycling injuries, Road Bikes
