Road Cycling Blog

Things You Should Know When You Begin Cycling

When you begin cycling you should do your best to be as assertive and to ride as safely as possible. There are a number of things to keep in mind, and as boring as cycling safety may be, it is what will help prevent accidents.

Lock it up

Always lock up your bike. Even if you are just popping into a shop for five minutes, lock your bike up. You might even want to use two different locks.

Be assertive

Take a cycling training course if you haven’t done so already. OK, so you may have learnt to ride a bike when you were small and how hard is it to remember? It’s literally like riding a bike again. But, you will be surprised what a two hour course can do. It will change the way you think about cycling and the way you cycle, forever. Understand the rules of the road and exercise good cycling proficiency. This will help to keep you safe on the roads.

Traffic lights

When you get to a traffic light what should you do? Gear down. Pedalling in high gear once the lights have turned green is for fools. Gear down and give yourself a head start.

Punctures and bike maintenance

Part of being a cyclist is knowing your instrument; your bike. Get to know your bike inside and out. You shouldn’t set off on a ride if you don’t know how to fix a puncture. A puncture repair kit will help you, so will puncture-proof tyres. Be wise, and know how to fix one, just in case.

Continue reading “Things You Should Know When You Begin Cycling”

Zipp Looks to Educate Buyers on Counterfeits

I have well documented the bike industry’s battle against counterfeit product here on the blog. (Here and here specifically, with other references throughout.)

Aside from the obvious effect it has on manufacturer/distributor bottom lines and brand perception; counterfeit product presents a dangerous safety risk. Authentic products are tested to extreme levels of performance by the brand which designs and produces them to ensure they deliver on the promises they make but also to protect the end users – us – in this inherently dangerous sport we love.

Have you ever experienced a component failure? I know from my years behind a bike shop counter that those experiences are few. But; the ones I have seen are scary and often quite injurious to the user as well.

Counterfeit products can be hard to spot (except from the often accompanying “too good to be true” price); but the downside to the risk is huge. Learn to identify some of the warning signs that a product may not be what it is represented to be and be an advocate for your own safety. Continue reading “Zipp Looks to Educate Buyers on Counterfeits”

When Traversing MTB Trails, 29er Mountain Bikes Are the Way to Go

Mountain biking allows riders to see the glory of the great outdoors while partaking in an awesome exercise regimen. Australia has some of the best trails in the world, with varying levels of difficulty and terrain suited to all types of riders, from novices to advanced mountain biking enthusiasts. Of course, you’ll need an appropriate bike to traverse MTB trails, and 29er mountain bikes offer many advantages over traditional 26-inch varieties.

29er mountain bikes

Newbies to the sport may be asking themselves what makes 29er mountain bikes so special? The 29 refers to the wheel circumference; that is 29 inches around as opposed to the standard 26-inch configuration. While some claim the 29er mountain bikes are unnecessary, most enthusiasts agree that these bikes offer many benefits thanks to the increased wheel size. 29er mountain bikes may not be ideal for every rider, but many will enjoy the enhanced ride and increased stability offered by these highly popular mountain bikes. Below are just a few of the many upsides afforded by 29er mountain bikes:

29er mountain bikes handle better than bikes with a smaller wheel size. The larger wheel means a greater surface area, which means more of it makes contact with the ground as you ride. Therefore, you have more control when climbing grades and taking sharp turns, which is crucial on advanced MTB trails.

Overcoming obstacles is much easier with a wheel this size. No matter how rough the MTB trails may prove to be, your bike will be able to fly over rocks and other debris much easier. This cuts down on falls and spills, which can be quite dangerous depending on the surrounding environment. Continue reading “When Traversing MTB Trails, 29er Mountain Bikes Are the Way to Go”

Athletic Success and Finding Inspiration Through Those That Reach The Top

This post comes from another writing associate and I am thrilled to get to share it. While it doesn’t speak directly about cycling – the concepts are so perfectly parallel to the struggle on the road or trail that we all encounter from time to time. I hope you find it inspirational.

Sports stories have a huge popular following. Millions of fans follow football, baseball, or hockey games every week. Yet more millions stay glued to their television sets every four years as an Olympiad rolls on by. What is it that we find so incredibly compelling and inspiring about athletic pursuits and success stories? Why do we keep watching and listening? Athletics are a smaller version of human struggling, a microcosm our lives. In a game, a race, or a ring we watch a bit of history unfold. We watch individuals struggle against others and against themselves. We watch them struggle with the weight of expectations and the weight of what others have accomplished before. And inevitably we watch as someone overcomes obstacles and fears to become a champion and hero.

Sports as Life

We love success stories in sports because they remind us about certain facts of life success. The game is always hard. The game is never over until the end, and no winner was born a winner. The win is in the training, in the practice. Just trust Muhammad Ali, who gave us this gem among his numerous inspirational quotes: “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'” When we watch feats of athletic excellence, we watch the culmination of suffering and the birth of a champion.

Success as Personal

Some of the greatest sports stories remind us that we can be our own biggest opponents. Rudy Ruettiger has been made famous through the film Rudy. He was a short, dyslexic kid in a huge family. His dream was to play on Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish football team. First though, he had to get into Notre Dame itself by taking two years of credits from a local college.

In 1974, on his fourth try, Ruettiger was accepted. Standing 5 feet, 6 inches tall, Ruettiger was too small to be a football player. Through his dedication and persistence, however, he was accepted onto the scout team, a junior varsity squad used to train the varsity athletes. His drive and energy were so enormous, however, that Ruettiger eventually got some field time; he played 3 games for the Fighting Irish in 1975-76. At the end of one game, he was carried off the field by his teammates: the first Notre Dame football player to receive that honor. His story of persistence inspired the 1993 film Rudy. Ruettiger is not the most accomplished athlete who’s ever walked the earth. He didn’t win any medals or international awards. He did, however, accomplish his dream and inspire those around him. His unswerving dedication and unshakeable will power, in spite of failure and obscurity, make Ruettiger the success story that we remember today. We remember Rudy Ruettiger because he has what so many of us lack: the strength and patience to weather the odds. So often we’re tempted to quit, believing that it’s not meant to be, that we aren’t good enough. Ruettiger’s story should remind us to be persistent and to trust in ourselves.

Bike Seat Selection and Elevated PSA Levels

I recently received an e-mail from a client with an excellent question. I’ll let our exchange do the talking.

He wrote:

I have just had a physical and the only area that showed with some concern was my PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) level. It could be elevated from one of the BPH medicactions that I take and/or all the bike riding. I have decided given this situation to get some form of the Selle SMP saddles. I am leaning toward the Dynamic. Any thoughts on this.

My response:

As for saddles, as I have researched saddle selection and elevated PSA, the link between it and specific saddle selection seems weak at best but does stand to reinforce proper saddle dimensions, position, and set up. The strongest link to elevated PSA (as it would appear separate from causation by prostate cancer cells) appears to be with cycling in general (and strenuous exercise specifically). Research by a couple of my mentors; seems to agree with these findings.

That is to say; I wouldn’t let elevated PSA cause me to choose a saddle that I am not confident in, not comfortable riding, or just settling for in general. A saddle of proper dimensions, in the proper position; allowing it to correctly bear rider weight on the sit bones and minimize soft-tissue contact will be more prostate-friendly than otherwise.

So, as I am very commonly found to say – error on the side of your personal confidence and comfort, then be sure to have the position correct; which is my job, of course.

This is sure to raise some questions and thoughts with some of you so; fire away and I’ll answer in order and as I’m able.

Thanks for reading!

Allegro Cycling: Best Month Yet!

June is coming to a close and Allegro Elite Cycling is preparing to celebrate the BEST MONTH EVER of in it’s 2 year history.

I’ve been busy (if you can’t tell from how little I’m posting here) and can’t thank everyone enough. All the clients who have helped make this happen I count as friends – you are all credits to Portland’s cycling scene.

So, in light of the best month in my Allegro’s history – and since it is Friday – here’s a Friday Five of why you should work with Allegro Elite Cycling.

Help on your schedule. You are busy. How many bike shops have set hours and tell you when they will work with you and when they won’t? Yep – almost all of them.

Now, I do need to sleep sometime – so don’t make a habit of requesting the 2 a.m. slot for a bike fitting. But, honestly; if that is the only time that will work for you: I’ll be there (with a very, very large coffee in hand). Help at your location. Sometimes it is hard to load up the bike or bikes and take them to the bike shop. Let the shop come to you!

All my prices include pick up and delivery of your bicycle to your location. Home, work, church, amusement park, coffee shop (my favorite), wherever. I have done a Platinum Elite Fitting in a kitchen; a quick-tune in a living room; I have dropped by for small adjustments to the bike; and have installed training wheels in a client’s garage.

For more detailed and time intensive work I’ll pick the bike up when it is convenient for you and drop it off the same. The effort involved for you is minimal: as it should be – you have more important things to think about.

Of course you are welcome to drop your bike with me as well – whatever serves you best. Continue reading “Allegro Cycling: Best Month Yet!”

Top Tips to Avoid Cycling Injuries

I have been particularly busy with some other projects the last few weeks – directing a soccer camp among them – so I apologize for the lack of new articles.

Fortunately; I have colleagues like Mike Roberts to help bridge the gap. Mike Roberts is a writer for Priority Legal.

I am happy to have his contribution here and hope you enjoy it. My only editorial addition would be to also consider proactive injury prevention in the form of getting a proper and thorough bike fitting.

If you are a keen cyclist then you will know that there is a chance you may have a cycling injury. If you are new to cycling, or you only cycle occasionally, then you may not be so aware.

Although you can’t stop cycling injuries happening altogether, there are a few things you can do to help prevent cycling injuries from occurring. Here are our top tips:

Equipment

When embarking on a cycle ride it is vital that you have the best equipment that you can. Many cycling injuries occur when equipment is faulty. So, have your bike checked to make sure that the tyres are pumped up enough, that the brakes are working and that your gears are in check. Ensure that your saddle is at the right height and that your feet can still touch the ground. Tightening any bolts and screws will also help to keep the bike secure. As you begin to cycle any loose screws will inevitably become loser.

Equipment also includes your helmet. You should be doing all you can to protect yourself, in the event of a cycling injury. Make sure that you are wearing as much protective equipment as you can. Continue reading “Top Tips to Avoid Cycling Injuries”

How to Avoid Accidents While Cycling

No matter where you ride your bicycle, whether it’s on a quiet road in a rural area, along the suburban streets where your home is, or in a busy, crowded city, there are certain precautions that you need to take to avoid accidents as best as you can. If you aren’t riding as safely as possible, you’re increasing the risk that you’ll be involved in an accident, and this increases your chances of being severely injured. To avoid problems before they start, therefore, you have to know what precautions to take and how to avoid accidents in the first place.

Don’t Ride on the Pavement

Riding on the pavement may at first seem safer than riding in the street, but it actually isn’t at all. You risk getting hit by vehicles that are backing out of their driveways or swiftly pulling into their driveways without looking. And when it comes to crossing the street, many drivers don’t expect to see bikers in crosswalks,
so they often get hit by cars that are making turns. Also, getting onto the pavement on the other side of the street can also be difficult. The best thing to do is to ride with the traffic in the street and obey all traffic laws as if you were driving a car.

Invest in a Mirror

It’s very important that you look behind you before swerving to another side of the road or even to move over just enough to avoid a parked car. Not doing so may result in you getting hit by a car coming up from behind you. If you find it difficult to look behind you without losing your balance on your bike, invest in a mirror instead. Continue reading “How to Avoid Accidents While Cycling”

The Ideal Cycling Kit

I love the new opportunities I have had to bring you material from other writers. A fresh perspective from my old, tired, tech-heavy approach is great from time to time and this post is no different.

Pamela Simon has been hooked on cycling ever since the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and regularly blogs about her experiences in the saddle. Thanks, Pamela for allowing me to post your work. I am happy to publish it.

If you’re thinking about taking up cycling as a hobby or as part of a training regime with a view to compete, you need to make sure you’re properly equipped. Cycling has some different requirements to other sports, and a standard t-shirt and shorts combination probably won’t cut it if you want to do it properly. So, what do you need in your kit if you’re going to make it big in the world of cycling?

Of course, the first thing you need is a good bike. It’s important that this is the right size for you. While it can be OK to buy a cheap second hand bike, you need to make sure it isn’t too big or small before you agree to buy it. Going to a specialist bike shop may mean spending more on your bike, but you will know that it suits your size perfectly, so it will be perfectly safe and comfortable to ride and won’t cause any injuries from being the wrong size or shape for your body.

The second most important part of your cycling kit will be what you choose to wear. Cycle jerseys are the perfect option for a streamlined, cycle-friendly top. They tend to be tight-fitting and made from specialist fabrics so that they won’t slow you down, and they come in a range of designs to suit your style. Cycle shorts come in a variety of lengths, from hotpants to full leg length, and tend to be weatherproof and suitable for all seasons. Loose clothing might catch in the wheels, so try to avoid it. Continue reading “The Ideal Cycling Kit”

Developing A Simple Cardio Cycling Routine That Fits Around Stressful Lives – You Don’t Even Have To Join A Gym!

This week I’m bringing you a general fitness related guest post from Alex which has some good advice for all of us.
Alex is an enthusiastic blogger and cyclist. He often takes the time out of his busy life to take part in cardio cycling sessions and has seen his health and fitness improve hugely.
I hope you enjoy it! – Matt.

Have you been amazed by the cost of gym memberships? They have spiraled out of control! The average gym now charges members £50 per month, with premium gyms bumping the cost up to a ridiculously high £100. Even for those that can afford the monthly fee, the worry is that with work and their personal life, they won’t be able to get value for money.

If you are considering doing cardio on a regular basis, then joining a gym is not necessary. Cycling is one of the best ways to improve cardiovascular endurance. In fact, getting outdoors and avoiding the gym is a lot healthier and going to be much more fun than sitting in a gym. Here is the great thing about cardio routines; you can choose exactly how you work out! Whether you are someone worried about their long term health, or someone who just wants to improve their fitness ready for an upcoming sporting event, you can tailor a routine around your every single need.

Here are some of the main benefits of cardio exercise which should push you into developing a routine that suits you:

Helps to decrease heart rate
Decreases blood pressure
Burns calories easily
Reduces body fat
Balances cholesterol
Improves breathing

The Routine
Each cardio routine should incorporate periods where you work hard and periods where you rest. Athletes tend to emphasize these periods to create an intense workout.

During rest periods, you are likely to be operating at around 50-65% of what you were working at before. The idea behind alternating is to allow your body to adjust to different output levels, but also to gain stamina at the same time. For instance, you might choose for the main work period to be a 150 metre climb on the hill that you can see in the distance!
How Long Should A Cardio Routine Be?
When you first begin your cardio routines 15-20 minutes is going to be more than enough. As you increase your cardiovascular endurance, you can change certain variables. Some people prefer to do an intense cardio routine. They will increase the time that they workout, rather than the intensity, until they get to the 30 minute mark. At this point, when they feel that they are executing the routine perfectly, they will increase the intensity. For instance, they reduce the amount of rest periods and work harder during the working periods.
Others that are not so competitive and just want to increase their endurance and health prefer to do long and slow workouts. When they are comfortable at the 15-20 minute mark, they increase their workout by 5-10 minutes. Although the focus is on consistently increasing the time they work out, generally, they are going to have to increase the intensity at some point. Otherwise they are going to be working out for hours on end, which won’t fit in nicely with their busy work/personal life.
What You Will Need to Get Started
Bike
Choose your weapon of choice. A lot of people go for racers or “road bikes”. That being said, if you find long road rides boring, why not consider a mountain bike instead. There are plenty of great bikes available from retail stores up and down the country from around £200.

Bike Insurance
Unfortunately, we live in a world where our possessions are not safe. If you train for 1-2 hours, it is likely you might have to take a break and your bike is at risk. Consider getting cycle insurance quotes from Velosure in case there are any problems.

Gear
Although you don’t need to buy every item under the sun, some items will make your life a little more comfortable. Breathable clothing, padded clothing for mountain bike riders, riding shoes for road riders and water bottles will all help to make this a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience.