Question: Am I really the only rider out here with enough self-preservation instinct to be afraid of going fast downhill? I'm a (shudder) descentophobic! Can you help? -- Alice C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Don't feel bad, Alice. Lots of cyclists feel apprehensive on fast descents. It's not paranoia because bad things really can happen if you fall off while going fast. … [Read more...] about How Can I Cure My Descentophobia?
Descending
How Can I Stop Fearing Curvy Descents?
Question: I just finished the hardest ride I have ever done -- the 1,200-km Boston-Montreal-Boston. I made it through the 30,000 feet of climbing, but the steep, curvy descents really scared me. I literally crept down hills, squeezing the brakes for dear life until my hands ached. Do you have any advice for overcoming this fear and letting myself go a bit more? -- Elizabeth … [Read more...] about How Can I Stop Fearing Curvy Descents?
How Can I Control Descents Without Overheating Rims?
Question: My training roads include very steep descents, many with sharp switchbacks. I try to avoid riding the brakes, but sometimes tubes blow out because the rims get so hot. I've nearly crashed twice. Do you have any pointers to avoid this? -- Shirley M. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: On a road with numerous steep downhill corners, the trick is to let the bike run on the … [Read more...] about How Can I Control Descents Without Overheating Rims?
Did Improper Braking Cause My Blowout?
Question: During a recent tour in the mountains of Virginia, a tire blew out on a long and dangerous downhill. The rim was very hot, so I assume that braking overheated it. Can I get disc brakes for my road bike? Or is this a technique issue? -- Charles A. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Yes, in the past few years disc brakes have become more and more prevalent on road bikes. And … [Read more...] about Did Improper Braking Cause My Blowout?
Learning Good Descending Technique
Brought to you by RBR's video partner Cycling Secrets. … [Read more...] about Learning Good Descending Technique