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
Related Posts -
First Triathlon Fashion for Women Dressing for your first triathlon can be a challenge. It's easy enough to dress to go running, but you'll be cycling and swimming, too, so do you choose one outfit for all three races, or change each time? The time you take between events counts toward your overall time so...... -
Making the Most Out of Competition by Running for Charity Charity is alive and well in the modern culture. This is seen in the donation drives as well as the charitable events which are held every day. For those who are into running, there are many ways you can do your part by running for charity. While some people will...... -
Swimming for a Triathlon Here are some tips for any triathlete when it comes to training and then racing in the swimming leg for any triathlon competition. The first leg for any triathlon is going to be the wettest one, and yet it should be the one that is the most relaxed and the...... -
Preparing For your Triathlon With the Right Gear Most people who are facing the concept of their first triathlon are wondering what type of gear and equipment will best suit them. Depending on your skill level, your budget and what equipment you currently own, your needs for the right gear will certainly be difficult. Assuming that budget is...... -
Planning and Preparing for your Swimming Triathlon Make sure that you plan long ahead of time by making a list of the materials that you are going to need in order to participate in the swimming portion of your triathlon. Here is a list of basic supplies that you are going to need for your training regimen......
Related Websites -
Player Profile: Vijay Singh Brief Bio - Vijay "the big Fijian" Singh was born the 22nd of February, 1963 in Lauoka, Fiji, and grew up in Nadi. His name meaning victorious lion, Singh learned golf from his Father and is well know for his careful planning and attention to every detail of every shot....... - Michael Phelps Edition of Sunday Money Madness Good morning! How is everybody's Sunday fairing? There were several amazing wins during the Olympics this past week. Don't you agree? Two swim races at least with only one one-hundredth of a second margin from first and second place. Wow! Remember a while back when I wrote about money......
-
Henness Pass Fishing Paved access to this pass' fishing leaves the Highway 89 just fifteen minutes north of where Truckee is. It will run down along the Little Truckee River until it reaches the end of the pavement which is at the Jackson Meadows Reservoir Dam. Here you will find dirt roads that...... -
RBC Canadian Open at St. George’s G&CC in Etobicoke, Ontario This week in golf featured the RBC Canadian Open, held at St. George’s G&CC in Etobicoke, Ontario. The field was a mix of both up-comers and veterans, including Trevor Immelman, Matt Kuchar, David Duval, Stuart Appleby, Ricky Barnes, John Daly, Scott Verplank, and Mike Weir. The national championship of Canada...... -
Are You Army Fit? You’re pretty fit if you can pass the Army’s physical fitness test with flying colors! No matter your age, if you're in the Army, you have to do this test at least twice a year. Talk about incentive to stay in shape! The test consists of: Push-ups for 2 minutes......
- Famous People Topical & Specialty Stamps
- Salt Water Ponds Water Features Garden Decor Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living
- Range Rover Sport Land Rover Hybrid Vehicles
- For Two People Floats & Rafts Pool Fun Pools & Spas Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living Nursery
- Cast Iron Water Fountains Water Features Garden Decor Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living
Categories:
Biking, Swim Bike Run
Tags:
0 comments ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.
Leave a Comment