QUESTION: Can you put road tires on a gravel bike? I'm looking at a used gravel bike and like the idea of a more upright geometry. But in reality I almost only ride on the road so I probably want road tires. - Ralph C RBR REPLIES: Yes, you can definitely use road tires on a gravel bike. The reverse is not true though, because road bike frames often don't have enough … [Read more...] about Can you put road tires on a gravel bike?
Do indoor bike trainers work?
QUESTION: Do indoor bike trainers really work? Can you actually improve your fitness that way, or is it just a burning calories kind of thing for exercisers? - Bryan P RBR REPLIES: Indoor bike trainers definitely work. In particular, the new generation of smart trainers and smart bikes that can both measure and control how many watts you are pedaling are extremely effective … [Read more...] about Do indoor bike trainers work?
Potatoes Just as Effective as Energy Gels for Cyclists
by Lars Hundley We've heard it from Coach John Hughes many times that regular foods from the convenience store like Peppermint Patty and Fig Newtons have more carbs than energy bars and gels, and often taste better. A scientific study in the Journal of Applied Physiology shows that regular potatoes are also just as effective as energy gels when it comes to cycling … [Read more...] about Potatoes Just as Effective as Energy Gels for Cyclists
Are smart bike trainers worth it?
QUESTION: Are smart bike trainers worth it? They are all pretty expensive, but you can get a regular trainer dirt cheap, especially used. - Patrick M RBR REPLIES: As a cyclist who has ridden both rollers and regular trainers as far back as the late 80s and who found them so terrible and mind-numbingly boring that I'd rather not ride at all than ride on them again, I would … [Read more...] about Are smart bike trainers worth it?
How Much Should I Train on Hills?
QUESTION: I usually do my solo training on flat terrain but have begun riding with a group on a hilly route. I want to train more frequently on hills so I can keep up -- and maybe even put the hurt on these guys! What's the correct balance of flat and hilly training? -- Jason L. RBR REPLIES: This is a good question for every roadie who's able to choose between hilly and flat … [Read more...] about How Much Should I Train on Hills?