October 29, 2020
Ask the Coach: Neck Fatigue
By Coach John Hughes
65 y.o. RBR reader Kerry asks, “Just this past year I have noticed that when I am doing long downhills (3-6 miles long), my neck gets very tired from holding my head up to be able to look down the road. Are there exercises that can be done to strengthen my neck muscles to prevent this problem?” Read more.
Fixing Rubbing Hydraulic Disc Brakes
By Jim Langley
Rubbing hydraulic discs can drive you crazy. Sometimes, it’s just a slight chirp or brushing sound only heard when walking your bike. Or it could be bad enough that you actually feel a brake dragging making it harder to pedal! Either way, it’s annoying and something to fix ASAP. Read more.
How Should I Lube My Chain?
Question: I just started riding after 20 years of overwork at the office and sloth at home. I love it, but simple mechanical chores have me stumped. For instance, how do you lube a chain with a drip applicator bottle without getting it all over the garage? – Basil M. Read more.
Elite Direto XR Smart Trainer Review
By Rick Schultz
The DIRETO XR replaces the DRIVO II as Elite’s new top of the line direct-drive/wheel off smart trainer. With a massive 11 lb. flywheel and newly designed transmission this trainer is super quiet. Basically, the whirring of a perfectly lubricated chain is louder than the trainer. Read more.
REGGIE Women’s Dropper Bibs and Namaste No-bib Shorts Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
I’m always on the lookout for a comfortable pair of bibs that are nature break friendly. When I opened my inbox and read REGGIE launched their version of women’s drop bottom bibs, you know I contacted the company for a test pair. A week later, the Classy Pink Dropper Bibs showed up at my house. Read more.
Arresting the Progression of Atherosclerosis
By Randolph Ice PT, CCS
As athletes, it’s easy to believe that we are immune to heart disease because of how much we exercise and our resulting physical fitness. But recent studies have shown that even fit cyclists can have as much atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) as their less active peers. Read more.
Honey Stinger Cracker Bars – Quick Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
This October, Honey Stinger launched a revamped version of their Cracker Bars designed for post-workout recovery. I had never tried the previous version, but I can tell you this new one is quite tasty. The bar contains creamy nut butter and honey between two crunchy, salted multigrain crackers. Then the whole bar is coated with chocolate. Read more.
Preventing Cycling Ailments Bundle
The Preventing Cycling Ailments bundle of four eArticles, by Coach John Hughes, provides a wealth of well-researched knowledge and vast experience in how to prevent and deal with some of road cycling’s typical ailments: issues with your butt, hands and feet; the scourge of cramps; nausea, bonking and other fuel-related maladies related to nutrition; and the power of the mental side to help forestall or overcome these and other on-the-bike issues.
Question of the Week
Do you ever deal with neck pain from cycling?
Other Cool Stuff to Read
Bicycle Retailer: Private equity groups looking at buying Canyon.
YouTube: How to Dress for Winter Cycling
VeloNews: Vittoria’s Air-Liner expands into gravel world
National Geographic: How bicycles transformed our world
Final Tip
When climbing, scoot back in the saddle a little so you get more leg extension, i.e., more leverage.
A good question of the week: Have you ever purchased cycling equipment and hidden the purchase from your significant other?