Newsletter Issue No. 1107
February 8, 2024
Does Crankarm Length Affect Gearing?
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
Last week’s Tech Talk answered a reader named Joe’s questions about his lower gearing plan. We asked for your help and you delivered with plenty of great ideas and advice – thank you!
This week, I want to quickly answer a couple of questions pulled from those comments and then spend a little more time on a third query which is the title of this Tech Talk. Again it would be helpful for any of you with experience on the subject to weigh in with what you’ve learned. Read more.
The Dusty Bandita: Interview with Bri Lui
By Sheri Rosenbaum
According to Strava’s Trend Report, gravel riding was the fastest-growing sport on the app last year, experiencing a whopping 55% increase. As someone who has been exploring dirt trails for years, I can’t say I’m surprised. However, only in the past four years did I muster the courage to venture onto gravel roads and participate in gravel races. The relaxed atmosphere was a refreshing change of pace from busy city streets, and instantly won me over. It’s so much fun. I’ve even converted several female friends to embrace gravel. Read more.
How Do Cyclists Keep Their Feet Warm?
QUESTION: I don’t mind riding in the cold weather during the wintertime except for one issue – I can’t keep my feet warm! My toes feel like they are going numb after half an hour on rides when the temperatures are under around 35 degrees. How can I keep them warm? – Brian R
ANSWER: Cold hands or feet can completely ruin an otherwise enjoyable winter bike ride. Fortunately, we’ve gotten a lot of great tips from other readers over the years on keeping your feet warm. Here are our top tips. Read more.
Late Meals Associated with Increased Risk for Heart Attacks and Strokes
The French NutriNet-Sante study found that eating dinner late in the evening is associated with increased risk for both heart attacks and strokes (Nature Communications, Dec 2023;14(7899)). Having a first meal for the day (breakfast or lunch) late in the morning also increased risk. The researchers followed 103,389 people, average age 42.6, for 7.2 years, during which time there were 2036 cases of heart disease, 988 cases of strokes, and 1071 cases of heart attacks, angina and heart stents. Read more.
Moots Introduces Titanium Vamoots 33 All Road Bike
Steamboat, CO., – January 23rd, 2024 – Moots launches the latest in their titanium road (Vamoots) line, the Vamoots 33. Embark on weekend rides with the cycling club or conquer significant distances for milestone Randonnee events. The Vamoots 33 is a versatile machine ready to tackle any road, anytime. Read more.
Question of the Week
Do you own a gravel bike?
Other Cool Things to Read
Cyclist.co.uk: How to get stronger legs for cycling
Canadian Cycling: An hour before race, UCI bans new Ekoi pedals, riders forced to buy shoes at the start line
Cycling Weekly: Zwift axes more jobs as Co-CEO resigns in efforts to become a ‘leaner’ business
BikeRadar: Detraining explained | How quickly do you lose fitness? And how fast can you get it back?
Most Clicked Last Week
How often should I lube my road bike chain?
End Notes
