Newsletter Issue No. 861

May 9, 2019

PDF version for Premium Members is here.

Showstoppers III: 10 Tips to Prevent Saddle Discomfort

by Coach John Hughes

In a survey of RBR readers, saddle discomfort and saddle sores were the most frequent physical problem while riding. In another study of amateur endurance cyclists more than 60% reported butt pain and of these cyclists about 50% had to alter the riders riding style or temporarily stop riding. Saddle problems are of two different types. Read more.

Smith Trace Road Helmet Review

by Sheri Rosenbaum

As part of their spring line, Smith released the Trace road helmet, replacing their best-selling Overtake model. With improved ventilation, a sleeker design and side channels for sunglass storage, the Trace is ready to perform. Read more.

Preventing and Treating Pain in Cycling’s Pressure Points: Butt, Hands & Feet

You know from experience that pain in your butt, hands or feet makes a ride uncomfortable and may even cause a DNF. The eArticle Butt, Hands and Feet, by Coach John Hughes, describes in detail how to prevent and how to treat pain in these pressure points.

Butt, Hands and Feet reviews the general factors that contribute to discomfort on the bike including your choice of a bike, anatomical issues, whether the bike fits you correctly, and how your fitness and technique could contribute to a problem.

Quick Tip: Don’t Lean Too Far Forward on Standing Climbs

Center yourself on standing climbs.

We often see riders make a mistake on out-of-saddle climbs. They lean way over the front of the handlebar, much more than necessary for the grade they’re on. Read more.

Riding Poorly: Is it Medical?

by Arnie Baker, M.D.

You are feeling that you don’t have the power in cycling that you think you should. Or you feel that it takes you longer than usual to get going, if you can get going at all. Or it takes longer to recover from training or racing. This doesn’t seem to be a temporary set-back. It’s been going on for more than two weeks. Read more.

Ashmei Merino Wool Mens KOM Cycling Jersey Review

by Lars Hundley

I’m a big fan of merino wool as a fabric. I regularly use socks, gloves, a long sleeved base layer and a helmet liner that are all made of merino wool. I love the way merino wool doesn’t pick up odors and does a great job in a wide variety of temperatures. When Ashmei offered to send me their KOM jersey to test, I was curious how a short sleeved jersey wool jersey would work out. Read more.

What to Eat Before, During and After a Bicycle Ride

by Gabe Mirkin, M.D.

You don’t need special sports drinks or power bars. Even the most elite athletes can get the nutrients they need from ordinary foods, water and salt. Healthy and fit people usually don’t need to eat during a bicycle ride when they cycle at a casual pace for less than two hours. However, you can prolong your endurance for a hard ride. Read more.

Question of the Week

What kind of groupset are you using on your road bike?

More Reader Tips to Avoid Getting “Doored”