QUESTION: After suffering a broken clavicle on a downhill turn, unseen gravel, any suggestions for getting rid of the demons when making similar turns? – Steve S. RBR Replies: That’s a good question, Steve. Overcoming fear after crashing is one of the toughest things for any rider, including pros, to do. … [Read more...] about Dealing With Fear of Cornering After a Bicycle Crash
1Training & Health
How to Climb Short, Steep Hills Cycling
by Fred Matheny Fabled 1970s U.S. racer Wayne Stetina wasn't a climbing specialist, but he often proved that he could climb as well as anyone on “any hill where I can see the top.” These are called "sprinter's hills" because powerful riders like Stetina, capable of high power outputs for short periods, often do well on them. But as the time taken to climb a hill stretches … [Read more...] about How to Climb Short, Steep Hills Cycling
Fausto Coppi’s Mysterious Death
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Fausto Coppi was the best international cyclist in the years before and after World War II because he was the best climber, time trialer and sprinter. He won the Giro d’Italia five times (1940, 1947, 1949, 1952, 1953), the Tour de France twice (1949 and 1952), and the World Championship in 1953. He was officially reported to have died from malaria, but … [Read more...] about Fausto Coppi’s Mysterious Death
Improving Your Climbing Through Attitude and Desire
(Over the next three issues, we’re going to focus on climbing. We’ll start today with a look at the psychological side of hauling yourself uphill. Then we’ll talk in more detail about how to climb short, steep hills. And, finally, we’ll provide climbing tips for the Clydesdales among us.) You’re riding with a friend who’s killing you on the hills. You know you’re equally fit … [Read more...] about Improving Your Climbing Through Attitude and Desire
The Hour-Long Race of Truth
The hour record had already been broken three times in the past 10 months, with only one rider having fallen short in his attempt. Dowsett and Team Movistar studied the prior races and developed a plan for Dowsett to race slightly slower than Dennis, allowing the Brit to keep enough in reserve for the final 10 minutes. Dowsett was behind Dennis’ record pace for the first 50 … [Read more...] about The Hour-Long Race of Truth