Newsletter Issue No. 1138

September 12, 2024

Do You “Need” Disc Brakes Now?

Jim’s Tech Talk

By Jim Langley

This being RoadBikeRider, I hope it’s understood that it’s disc brakes on ROAD bikes that’s on my mind today.

Because if it was mountain bikes, with the death defying feats even average MTBers routinely attempt today, I think it’s pretty undeniable that disc brakes are needed. Read more.

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Stupid Question But Smart Weightlifting, Complements of the Stimulus-to-Fatigue Ratio

By Kevin Kolodziejski 

My teachers used to say there’s no such thing as a stupid question.  The one I ask today, however, proves them wrong.

Are you interested in learning about something that can improve your well-being and optimize your daily functioning? Read more.

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Osprey Raptor 14 and Raven 14 Packs – Quick Review

By Sheri Rosenbaum

It’s obvious the folks designing Osprey packs are also bikers themselves. Every thoughtful detail of their Raptor 14 for men and Raven 14 for women packs was spot on, and never once did I think, “Gosh, I wish this pack had XYZ.” Never.  The body-specific fit provides comfort and stability. For example, the women’s specific packs are best suited for shorter, narrower, and curvier body types than the men’s. Read more.

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How can I stay motivated on solo training rides?

QUESTION: I often struggle to stay motivated on solo training rides, especially when preparing for events. Group rides aren’t always an option due to my schedule. Do you have any tips or mental strategies to keep pushing myself when I’m out there alone? It’s so easy to cut a ride short when there’s no one else around. —Mike D.

RBR’S STAN PURDUM REPLIES: Motivation to ride is an ongoing issue for many cyclists and not just regarding training rides. Read more.

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Surviving a Fast Group Ride: Tips for Hanging On

By Lars Hundley

So, you’ve decided to step up your game and join the local hammer-fest. These fast-paced group rides can be intimidating, exhilarating, and a great way to improve your fitness. They’re also a fantastic way to get unceremoniously dropped in the middle of nowhere if you’re not prepared. Here’s how to avoid that fate. Read more.

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Question of the Week

Have you had arthroscopic knee surgery?

Other Cool Things to Read

CBC News: Stop or yield? New research supports law change for cyclists
Cycling Weekly: Dr Hutch: ‘You can only have so many painful body parts‘
Road.cc: 5 cool wheel upgrades coming soon from Mavic, Giant, Cadex, Syncros and Miche

Most Clicked Last Week

How to position “softer regions” for comfort when cycling?

End Notes