QUESTION: Why is it "easier" to go hard on a hill than on a flat road? I do intervals on both types of terrain and can't seem to exert myself as much on the flats. -- Maxine S. RBR REPLIES: Many riders experience this. If they wear a heart rate monitor, they can hold a higher average heart rate on climbs compared to a flat road. The same is true if they use a power meter. It … [Read more...] about Why Can’t I Ride as Hard on Flats as on Hills?
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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...] about 10 Tips to Prevent Saddle Discomfort
7 Ways to Seat Stubborn Bike Tires
Jim’s Tech Talk By Jim Langley For anyone who doesn’t know what it means to “seat” a tire, let’s start with an explanation. To “seat” or “seating” a tire is one of the final steps taken when installing most tires on bicycles and motor vehicles, too. Seating is important because it ensures that the inflated tire is fully and properly installed. If tires are … [Read more...] about 7 Ways to Seat Stubborn Bike Tires
How to Get Faster on Hills on Your Bike
Question: I ride with a couple of buddies who seem to easily drop everyone on the hills. It's not like they're wispy little guys doing it with a crazy power-to-weight ratio. What's the secret to getting up the hills faster like them? Coach Rick Schultz Replies: My reply may sound a little trite, but it works: Spin to win. Before I go any further, let me share what my … [Read more...] about How to Get Faster on Hills on Your Bike
Learn How to Safely Panic Stop on a Bike
by Fred Matheny Being able to stop suddenly in a short distance can get you out of big trouble. Think about those times on a ride when you are happily pedaling along and need to "stop on a dime." It could be that a car suddenly pulls out in front of you off a side street. Or comes around you and cuts you off. Or a rider in front of you approaches what seems like a clear … [Read more...] about Learn How to Safely Panic Stop on a Bike