January 14th, 2012 — Biking, Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run
You are really going to want to choose a bicycle that fits your body perfectly, comfortable, and also fits your budget. You can buy an extremely expensive bike, but if it does not fit your frame, then it is completely worthless when it comes to meeting your bicycling needs.
The final issue that you are going to want to consider when it comes to bikes is whether you want a bike that has a classic road geometry to it, or to choose one that is more specifically triathlon oriented or forward oriented in nature. The difference that plays an important role in this decision is where your center of gravity is going to end up being in relation to the bottom bracket on your bike.
A road frame bicycle is going to put it further back. On the other hand, the standard triathlon frame is going to move you forward instead. The justification for this is that being more forward is going to make it simpler for you to get into the right position for aero bar, as well as saving some of the power from your legs so that the run, which comes after the bicycling portion of the race, is not as overwhelming and arduous as it would have been if you would have had to pedal harder or with more power.
Generally speaking, if you are more flexible, then you are going to want to go for a position that is more relaxed in nature. This is where you are going to be able to generate the biggest amount of power. If on the other hand you are older and more stiff, especially in your glutes, then you might want to be considering the forward option that the triathlon geometry bike is going to provide. This is because this is where someone with less flexibility is going to be capable of generating the biggest amount of power. Some bicycles will allow you to opt for both, and this is going to allow you to test drive different positions until you have figured out which one is going to work out for you the best over a period of time.
The biggest and most important investment that you can ever make when it comes to bicycling gear is to have a good set of wheels. Make sure that you are relying upon your bike expert to guide you through the right wheel options based on your weight, your frame size and the conditions of the race. Make sure that you are choosing aero rims and a minimum number of spokes. Do not sacrifice the integrity of your wheels for the sake of speed. Choose the right wheels for your bike, the right bike for your body, and you will do just find in the end.
Photo Credits: kisocci
Originally posted 2009-09-18 03:20:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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December 4th, 2011 — Biking, Swim Bike Run
Bicycling is something which has been growing in popularity lately. Many people have been taking to the sport purely for race biking. This has been fueled by a higher interest in such televised races as the Tour de France. Many people have found an interest in how the sport has changed over the years. This includes the science behind the bicycles, the clothing which is worn and the fuel which is used to power the cyclists.
The First Races
It was not a long time after the invention of the bicycle that race biking was invented. This seems to be a natural progression seen most anywhere. These first races were competitions between cyclists to see who could cover a preset course spanning from one city to another. They started in the mid to late 1800’s. These are the races which have grown into such races as the Tour de France as well as races in Italy and Germany. The races which have gained recognition include ones which are on American soil as well. Every country has been responsible for creating some of the best cyclists the world has ever seen.
The Science of the Bicycle
The first bicycles used for race biking were nothing more than conversions of the standard bicycle. They used steel frames and thick rubber wheels. Everything about the bike was heavy right down to the chains which were used. Nothing about the bicycle was comfortable at this point and there were not as many gears being used for such things as climbs. Over the years, lighter and more durable metals have been found to build bikes from. There has also been a switch in the effectiveness of the brakes and the contours of the frame itself.
Even the handlebars have undergone a complete revolution. The original handlebars used for race biking were little different from the regular handlebars. The shape eventually included an extension which rolled under. This allowed the cyclist to grab lower and create a more aerodynamic shape. The handlebars which are used today even include a brace which can be used for resting the forearm and elbows while racing. This allows you to have good aerodynamics while taking pressure off of the back muscles. The rider uses skeletal support to ride the bike and be in greater comfort for a longer period of time.
Better Fuel for Greater Performance
Outside of the bike itself, the fuel which is involved in race biking has undergone many changes. It used to be the only thing racers would bring along with them was good old water. These days there are formulas which will replace enzymes lost during the race. You can even stow away packs which will give you carbs and food replacement for long term races. The one thing which has not changed here is the use of water to hydrate. Water has still been found to be the best way to keep your body going even after you have been racing for hours on end.
Photo Credits: mikebaird
Originally posted 2010-03-28 10:59:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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