Question: After rounding a corner, should I stand when pedaling back up to speed? -- Chris H. RBR Replies: The main reason for standing is to accelerate quickly to regain the speed lost in a corner. So the decision depends on the type of turn and your need to resume riding fast. … [Read more...] about Should I Stand While Coming Out of Corners on a Bike?
1Training & Health
What’s the Trick to Cycling on Really Rough Roads?
Question: I ride on bad pavement -- old, bumpy and cracked. It's not the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, but I do get bounced off the saddle. It's a struggle to keep a steady cadence. How in the hell (of the North) do the pros manage to ride so fast on cobbles? -- Craig P. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The answer is a combination of strength, gear selection, experience and … [Read more...] about What’s the Trick to Cycling on Really Rough Roads?
How to Cross Railroad Tracks Safely on a Bicycle
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. … [Read more...] about How to Cross Railroad Tracks Safely on a Bicycle
How to Ride a Bicycle Safely on Wet Roads or in the Rain
Question: I live in Seattle and the rains have begun. I just bought a road bike to replace my trusty old mountain bike, but it seems much less stable in the wet. I'm spooked by slick pavement on the steep hills. What's the secret to safe control in wet conditions? -- Andrew R. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The main tactic for slick-road riding is to do everything slowly and … [Read more...] about How to Ride a Bicycle Safely on Wet Roads or in the Rain
Is it OK to Coast in a Cycling Paceline?
Question: When non-racers ride in pacelines, they often stop pedaling when they are getting too close the rider in front of them. Experienced riders usually admonish them to "soft pedal" instead, but I find that the pause is useful rather than dangerous. It tells me that there may soon be someone braking (much like the brake lights on a car). What do you think? -- Lynn W. … [Read more...] about Is it OK to Coast in a Cycling Paceline?