The Bicycling Thread

[wildbears]

Also wonder if a lower saddle height makes it easier to spin and higher makes it easier to apply torque?

[wildbears]

Having a marked saddle tilt would allow a rider to adjust the effective saddle height by moving fore or aft.

[wildbears]

[955i]

Now, that right there is funny. I don't care WHO you are.

[wildbears]

[wildbears]

A proper kitchen....

[wildbears]

Determination = Inspiration....

[955i]

No arms is impressive. How about the guy with one leg who passed me at Mile-25 in a half Ironman. He went on out of sight. Never saw him again as he probably kicked my ass on the run, too.

[wildbears]

I think there are pictures of that rider on the net. Incredible will power.

[wildbears]

[wildbears]

[wildbears]

What Say You?

There are reports that spinning (fast cadence) is slow twitch muscle fibers favorable, while cranking/grinding (slow cadence) is fast twitch favorable.

This seems counter intuitive.

BUT

OTOH, When cranking under a heavy load, fast twitch fibers are recruited just as with heavy weight lifting. And the reverse when spinning with a light load.

[955i]

I sayeth that I would be a poor test case. I was the second slowest player on my NCAA soccer team. I am a natural grinder. If I am favoring fast twitch muscles, it won't be obvious.

[wildbears]

Same here.... My cadence is in the 70-90 range.

[wildbears]

OTOH, When cranking under a heavy load, fast twitch fibers are recruited just as with heavy weight lifting. And the reverse when spinning with a light load.

[wildbears]

Tour de France, 1953....note the sew ups.over the riders shoulders...



See here for the documentary film about the race in 1953: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZV0wzG3KEgY

[wildbears]

Note that sew-ups are now usually referred to as tubulars.

[955i]

I didn't realize these guys were still hauling their own sew-ups into the 1950's. I admire how tough these guys were.

[wildbears]

We were still doing that on the team training rides into the early 80s.

[wildbears]

Optimal Time of Day to Pump Iron, From the Net....

The optimal time to lift weights is generally considered to be in the late afternoon or early evening. This is because core body temperature peaks around this time, leading to increased strength and power output. Additionally, some studies suggest that testosterone levels may be higher later in the day, potentially aiding in muscle growth.

[wildbears]

Changing Shoe Size???

Each US shoe size increase moves the cleat position/range forward 1.68 mm. So going up a half size moves it 0.84 mm.

[wildbears]

In the movie "Breaking Away," the main character, David, rides a Masi Gran Criterium bicycle. The movie used two Masi bikes for filming, and the bike ridden by David is distinguished by a black headset spacer.

[wildbears]

Note the "Sew-Up" under the saddle.

[wildbears]

Power Output in Cycling

Power output in cycling is directly related to both force and cadence. Power is calculated by multiplying the force applied to the pedals by the speed of the pedal rotation (cadence), meaning higher cadence at a given force or higher force at a given cadence will result in increased power output. While some studies suggest an "optimal" cadence range, individual preferences and training styles play a significant role in determining the most effective cadence for a cyclist.

Understanding the Relationship:
Power = Force x Velocity: This fundamental physics equation underpins cycling power measurements.
Force (Torque): The strength of the push on the pedals.
Velocity (Cadence): The speed at which the pedals are turning, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM).

How Cadence Impacts Power Output:
Increased Cadence at Constant Force: Spinning faster (higher RPM) at the same force level will increase the power output.
Increased Force at Constant Cadence: Applying more force to the pedals at the same cadence will also increase power output.
Combined Effects: Increasing both force and cadence simultaneously will produce the highest power output.

Individual preferences and physiological characteristics influence the best cadence. Generally, higher cadences (95-110 RPM) are associated with high-intensity efforts and sprints, while lower cadences (80-90 RPM) might be more suited for longer, sustained efforts.

Studies suggest optimal cadences may shift depending on the intensity of the effort, with higher power outputs often associated with higher cadences.
Training at different cadences can help improve both strength and endurance, allowing cyclists to produce power more efficiently across a wider range of conditions.

Factors Influencing Cadence Choice:
Terrain: Hilly terrains may require lower cadences and more force, while flat roads can benefit from higher cadences.
Training Goals: Strength training may prioritize lower cadences, while endurance training might favor higher cadences.
Individual Fitness: More experienced cyclists may be able to maintain higher power outputs at higher cadences than less experienced riders.
Muscle Fatigue: As fatigue sets in, maintaining a higher cadence may become more challenging.

In summary, understanding the relationship between force, cadence, and power output is crucial for cyclists seeking to improve their performance. By experimenting with different cadences and training techniques, cyclists can find the optimal approach to maximize their power production and achieve their goals.

Reference: Google AI.

[wildbears]

Proper Ride Fueling

Lack of fueling / hydration can result in the same "Bad Legs" as over-training.. And be persistent.

Been there done that.

Diet when you are off the bike, not when riding.

That is weight loss when off, weight gain when on.

[wildbears]

Shaft Drive San Rensho...

From the last century.

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[955i]

There are just no words. This thing is both odd AND beautifully built.