Question: I can climb for extended periods while seated. But if I stand, my legs tire immediately and I blow big-time. I can’t even resume seated climbing! Other riders stand for extended periods. How can I climb better standing? — Maurice H. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: When you stand, your legs have to support your weight…
Question: Early in my cycling career, I learned to keep my cadence at 90 rpm or above on the flats. The hills are another matter, though. Even with a compact crank and a low gear of 30×25 teeth, I can’t stay above 70 rpm on climbs. How can I improve? — Bill P. COACH FRED: …
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…
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,…
