How Do I Prevent Freezing Feet on Cold Winter Bike Rides? QUESTION: I've tried every trick imaginable to keep my feet warm during cold-weather rides -- larger shoes with 2 pairs of socks, battery-powered socks, spray antiperspirant to reduce sweating, plastic bags to cut wind. But no luck. My frozen feet are always the limiting factor in winter riding. Any tips? -- Judy … [Read more...] about How to Deal with Cold Feet Cycling: Solutions for Keeping Them Warm
Beginner Cyclist
How Quiet Should My Upper Body Be?
Question: When I ride outdoors, I concentrate on keeping a quiet and relaxed upper body. I thought I was successful until I started riding on my indoor trainer where I can see my shadow on the wall. I noticed that my upper body moves about an inch or so from side-to-side as I pedal. Is this a form problem, or an artifact of having the bike locked in the trainer? -- Jim B. … [Read more...] about How Quiet Should My Upper Body Be?
Should I Stand and Crank or Sit and Spin on Long Climbs?
Question: On a long climb, is it better to sit and spin or stand and crank? I can spin faster seated, but it feels better to stand from time to time. Which is better? -- Art S. RBR Replies: This sounds like a simple question, but the answer is complicated. It depends! … [Read more...] about Should I Stand and Crank or Sit and Spin on Long Climbs?
Don’t Crash! How to Approach the Most Common Road Hazards on a Bicycle
By Coach Fred Matheny Cycling is a unique sport because its arena is the open road. That's the same place frequented by traffic, potholes, snarling dogs and absent-minded pedestrians. But sometimes we're our own worst enemy. Inattention and poor technique can put us on the pavement as fast as any hazard. Use these tips and you'll be less likely to take a tumble. … [Read more...] about Don’t Crash! How to Approach the Most Common Road Hazards on a Bicycle
What Gears do Pros Use?
Question: What gears are they pushing? They look like they're flying. —Jack G. Pros often use a 55x11-tooth high gear for time trials. On flat or rolling stages they might have 53/39T chainrings with an 11-21T cassette. In moderate mountains they switch to a large cog of 23T or 25T. These days, they've joined the big-gear revolution like many recreational riders. For … [Read more...] about What Gears do Pros Use?