Question: I'd like to ride PAC Tour's Ridge of the Rockies next fall. It goes from Montana to Texas in 18 days, averaging 108 miles a day with lots of high-altitude climbing. What's the best way to pace a long tour? I could ride hard and fast every day, get to the motel quicker and have more rest time. Or I could ride slower to conserve energy but get in later with less time … [Read more...] about How Should I Pace Myself on a Long, Tough Bicycle Tour?
1Training & Health
How Can I Avoid Boredom on Long Solo Rides?
Question: I've been mountain biking for years and recently purchased my first road bike. I love riding in groups but can't stand training rides by myself. About an hour is all I can take. What's the trick to longer solo rides? -- Taylor O. RBR Replies: Some people can ride all day by themselves -- and prefer it. Others won't even get on their bikes for an hour unless at … [Read more...] about How Can I Avoid Boredom on Long Solo Rides?
A Roadie’s Story: Riding Paris-Roubaix
By Westly Windsor Excitement and concern had been building since leaving Australia. For my few days in Paris before the event, I left the boxed bike at the luggage department at the airport as it was too difficult to lug onto the trains and metro. Also, I was to rendezvous with the organising bike tour company, Thomson, at the airport anyway, so it seemed an ideal … [Read more...] about A Roadie’s Story: Riding Paris-Roubaix
How To Solve Saddle Sores
By Fred Matheny A saddle sore can ruin a ride. Even a tiny zit can begin to feel like you're perched on a golf ball. Nearly as painful are crotch abrasions caused by shorts that bunch or have an irritating seam. Even the pros, hardened by thousands of miles in the saddle, fall victim to what cycling author Arnie Baker, M.D., calls "crotchitis." Fabled tough guys like Eddy … [Read more...] about How To Solve Saddle Sores
How to Eat for a Long Bicycle Ride
By Coach Fred Matheny The key to riding long distances is food and drink. Sure, training is important—but nutrition and hydration are even more vital. According to renowned former ultramarathon rider and Coach John Hughes of Boulder, Colorado, "Nutrition, not necessarily training, is the limiting factor in endurance cycling." The reason? Even the best-trained riders pack only … [Read more...] about How to Eat for a Long Bicycle Ride