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…
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,…
Question: This has been bugging me for the 20 years I’ve been in cycling. Coaches say you need a smooth pedal stroke, which is typically defined as even power transfer through the complete turn of the cranks. But I still haven’t seen any evidence that a “smooth” rider is actually more efficient than a “masher,”…
Question: I live in the Midwest and my training roads are criss-crossed with train tracks. The crossings are in terrible shape with the rails sticking up from potholed pavement. And they often angle across the road, too. How can I get over these obstacles safely? — Rod M.
Question: I’m an old roadie, accustomed to brushing off my tires with my fingers or gloved palm whenever I ride through debris. The habit comes from riding with sew-ups back in the day. Now, after a long absence from cycling, I’m back in the saddle on a new (and incredibly lightweight!) bike with clincher tires….
