By Coach John Hughes Will asks, "I started riding this year and really enjoy it. I'd like to keep riding this winter but a trainer sounds boring. Is it reasonable to ride outside in winter?" Coach Hughes: Take it from a Coloradoan. Yes you can ride outside and with proper gear you can enjoy it. … [Read more...] about Can I Bicycle in the Winter?
1Training & Health
Riding Gravel Is Good for Everyone
By Coach John Hughes And it doesn't have to be expensive. I frequently ride gravel roads and bike trails on my road bike and really enjoy it as a literal change of pace with new scenery. I ride 28 mm tires on the road and they're fine for flat to rolling gravel, although they don't have enough traction for moderately steep climbs and descents. I also have a touring bike … [Read more...] about Riding Gravel Is Good for Everyone
How Much Should I Drink on Winter Rides?
QUESTION: In summer I needed to drink at least four bottles to ride my favorite hilly 65-mile bike loop. Now that it's 40 degrees cooler, I do the whole ride with one bottle. Is that OK? -- Sam S. RBR REPLIES: Probably not. You sweat nearly as much in the winter as when it's hot and humid. But the sweat doesn't show because of all your clothes, or it evaporates in the cold, … [Read more...] about How Much Should I Drink on Winter Rides?
Should I Eat Salty Food Before Long Bicycle Rides?
Question: I've lost 40 pounds in the last year. I weigh myself daily and have noticed that if I eat something salty (like pizza with anchovies), my weight can be up 3 or 4 pounds. I assume this is caused by water retention. So here's the question: Would it be a good ideato eat something salty a day or so before a long ride in the summer to help stay hydrated with the extra … [Read more...] about Should I Eat Salty Food Before Long Bicycle Rides?
Is Cycling Good for 50 Year Olds
By Coach John Hughes Dick S writes, "I know I should get more exercise and lose weight. I tried jogging and it hurts and isn't any fun. I'm an okay swimmer but it's hard to make time to get to the pool. I'm embarrassed to go to the gym because I'm not in very good shape. Would riding a bike be good for me? Coach Hughes: You bet! Cycling is the perfect activity for you! … [Read more...] about Is Cycling Good for 50 Year Olds