Newsletter Issue No. 912 b
May 4, 2020
How to Descend Safely
By Coach Fred Matheny
Your fast friends go downhill in strange postures. One tucks low over the top tube and holds the handlebars close to the stem, his nose nestled between his knuckles. Another puts his hips behind the saddle, resting his stomach on the seat. And you’ve seen pictures of pros sitting on the top tube in front of the saddle, chin almost touching the front wheel — although no one in your group has quite jacked up his courage to try it. What’s the best compromise of speed and safety? Read more.
How Can I Avoid Boredom on Long Solo Rides?
Question: I’ve been mountain biking for years and recently purchased my first road bike. I love riding in groups but can’t stand training rides by myself. About an hour is all I can take. What’s the trick to longer solo rides? — Taylor O. Read more.
10 Training Tips to Improve Your Riding
by Peter Wimberg
Looking for the most helpful cycling training tips that will really make a difference in your riding? I’ve had the benefit of almost 40 years of riding with 22 of those years racing and 12 of them training athletes one on one and also presenting clinics and teaching group classes. I’ve learned a lot about what has worked for me and other endurance athletes in making the most of training time and subsequently achieving goals. Read more.
Quick Tip: Multiple Uses for Old Bicycle Tubes
Today’s QT comes to us from Premium Member Richard M., who offers a few suggestions for what you might do with your old tubes after a puncture. I invite you to share your own uses below. It seems that of all the old bike stuff, tubes have about a million and one uses. Read more.
Dealing With Hearing Loss While Riding
By Richard Ellin, MD, FACP
Question: I have some nerve damage in my ears and wind noise can be bothersome at times. I sometimes wear foam ear plugs but was wondering if any other alternatives are available. Thanks in advance. — Steve A. Read more.
Why is My Cadence Higher on the Trainer?
Question: I’m a relatively new rider and have read that a higher cadence is better, so I’m trying to increase mine to 100 rpm. I have no trouble maintaining 95-100 with my bike on a trainer, but when I reach 95 on the road, it feels unnatural. Is there something about riding outside that makes me want to use a lower cadence than I should? — Mark G. Read more.
Ebike Motors and Technology, Compared and Explained
By Jordan Galeles
A cyclist new to e-bikes probably has a few questions about what e-bike motor they should get. This article will cover the ins and outs of e-bike motors to help cyclists make an educated decision for an e-bike that will best suit your needs. Read more.