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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November 30th, 2011 — Biking, Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run
One thing which cyclists can agree on is the idea that no two people agree on the best road bike. This worries many people who are in the market to buy a new bike. They want to choose a bike which is best suited to their needs. The only problem is finding out which bike is best for them. This is a big decision because good road bikes can cost thousands of dollars. Most people will have to ride the bike they purchase for years to come. It is possible to buy a road bike you will love if you keep a few different factors in mind.
Buy a Bike Your Size
A grown adult would never buy a children’s bike to ride. It is just as ridiculous to buy a full sized bike which is the wrong size for you. Buying the best road bike starts with having an expert measure you. Only by knowing your measurements can you find the bike which best suits your needs. This is because of the reach you have from the seat to the handle bars as well as from the seat to the pedals. Being measured only takes a few minutes and will help to save you from riding a bike which is all wrong for you.
Weighing Your Options
All bikes have a different weight. The weight of the best road bike will make a difference depending on how it is being used. Some people believe the lightest bike is always the best. This is not true if you are doing a lot of downhill riding. It is also not true if the weight of the bike is substituted for strength and durability. Pay attention to the weight of the bike, but always pay attention to what factors helped the bike to achieve the weight it has.
Ignore Everything but the Frame
When looking for the best road bike, it is important to remember everything but the frame can be replaced. Do not decide on a bike based on the gears which are used or the brakes. Do not even pay attention to the seat or the handle bars. The only thing which matters is the frame. All other components can be replaced if you do not like them. Many people will be strictly the frame and add on the components they like. While this is not always a possibility, check into it if you are particular about the components you use.
The Importance of Price
When searching for the best road bike, most people are not worried about the price. This is good seeing as you should be expecting to make a major investment. This attitude will prevent you from making a decision based more on economy than what will be the best decision for the way you ride. The only time price should enter the equation is if you find a few models which are similar in every way other than price. Then, by all means choose the one which will allow you to buy some new shoes while you are at it.
Photo Credits: Global Jet
Originally posted 2010-03-30 03:07:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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November 9th, 2011 — Biking, Swim Bike Run
Here is the final installation of our glossary of triathlon cycling terms and definitions.
Team Pursuit - This is a type of race that is similar in nature to the individual pursuit style of racing, however instead there are two different teams, each of which is made up of four riders. These teams will ride in pace lines, with the leader changing either every half lap or with every lap. The standard distance for this type of race is a distance of 4000 meters. The time for the team is taken upon the third rider crossing over the finish line, meaning that the fourth rider on the team does not have to finish the race.
Technical – This describes a portion of a racing trail that is designed to test the handling skills for the rider.
Time Trial – This is a race that involves riders or teams of riders going around the course or the track individually. The team or the rider that has the fastest time is deemed the winner of the competition.
Toe Clips – These are either straps or clips that are designed to securely fasten the feet of the rider to the pedals of the bicycle.
Track Bike - This is a very simple style of bike that is used for the purpose of racing on a track. This type of bike only has a single speed gear without any freewheeling, and it does not have any brakes.
Track Stand - This term describes the act of balancing the bicycle while the feet are on the pedals. During a match sprint style of racing, the riders typically begin in track stand because they want to allow one another to set the pace for the race so that they can take full advantage of the slip stream for the purpose of drafting.
Velodrome – This is a type of track that is specifically built for the purpose of bicycle racing. It is typically comprised of two long straight areas and two short curved areas that bank sharply. Most of these types of tracks are only 1/3 of a kilometer in length, though some can be as short as only 200 meters, or as long as a full 500 meters in length.
Weenie Gear - This is another word that is used to refer to granny gear. Granny gear is described as being the lowest of all gears on the mountain bike, and this particular gear is typically used when you need to climb a very steep grade while riding your bike.
Wind Out - This is a type of sprint that develops relatively slowly, and involves a gradual level of acceleration to the top speed.
Photo Credits: Nelson D.
Originally posted 2009-11-12 03:42:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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