Question: My race bike has a stiff aluminum frame. After a hard ride, my legs feel much more tired than they do on my steel-frame training bike. Is a stiff frame harder on the legs? — Douglas A. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I think you’re on to something. We all subconsciously soften the shock of…
Question: I put fenders on my road bike for winter training, but now my toe hits the front fender when I turn the wheel while riding slowly. Is this a problem? — Max D. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Some bikes have front-wheel overlap even without fenders. It isn’t a problem at normal riding speeds because…
Question: I just read the section on fixed-gear riding in Off-Season Training for Roadies. I know it would benefit my pedal stroke, but couldn’t I accomplish the same results on my regular bike by simply selecting a gear and not shifting for the entire ride? — Peter C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Sorry, Peter, it’s not…
Question: I’ve been lusting for a cyclocross bike to cruise the neat dirt roads I pass on my Kestrel. How do I get into cyclocross? Do I have to buy a real ‘cross bike? — Perry D. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Cyclocross is a fun way to build bike-handling skills and add variety to your fall…
Question: I’m looking for a cyclocross/winter/beater bike. I’ll consider any combination of the three categories. What are the current value buys in bikes that fit this description? — Dave C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Sorry Dave, at RBR our steadfast policy is not to answer questions like you pose. We don’t know anything about you, your…
