Adam Fouts
Road biking might be complex for beginners but nothing is hard if one is eager to learn. You can make it easier by learning the basics and knowing the answers to most road cycling questions. Here are the top 10 most asked questions about road biking and the good thing is, we have the answers to them!
Q1: Does it really have to be spandex?
Of course not! It has been proven that riding in comfy, baggy clothes can help you get through the day. Wear whatever is comfortable for you Spandex is advantageous in terms of flexibility on movements, breathable absorption of sweat and padding. If you don’t feel like wearing spandex, there are available crossover gears. Also, spandex shorts with pads can be paired with less form-fitting shorts. You can also wear jerseys with pockets to carry your snacks (raisins, oats bar, raisins, etc).
Q2: Is there a huge difference between a road bike and mountain bike?
Two root words: control and speed. Basically, Road Bikes prioritize speed over control. Road Bikes are for smoother, less diverse terrains. They have tighter gear ranges, narrow and curved handlebars, narrow tires than mountain bikes with rigid frames and forks.
On the other hand, Mountain Bikes are intended to be ridden slowly on varied terrains and is more on control over speed. They have larger tires, a wider range of gears with a lower top gear since you have to go slowly on dirt. A mountain bike has flat and wide handlebars and geometry that puts the rider in the upright position.
Check out the best carbon road bikes here.
Q3: Can I use my mountain bike on the road?
Definitely! Mountain bikes can feel sluggish compared to road bikes but it doesn’t mean you cannot use them on the road. Put a pair of no tread slick tires on your mountain bike and test it on a few road rides. If you love the experience of road biking, then you can start thinking about buying a road bike. It is less hassle and can save a lot than changing tires from time to time. Do not hesitate if mountain bikes are feasible to take you on the road because it can! Maybe not as good as a road bike will, but mountain bikes can be used, of course!
Q4: How to properly sit on a bike?
Sit the way you feel comfortable! Never let cycling be an uncomfortable experience for you. Biking requires you to work your legs and lungs out but it doesn’t have to hurt your buttocks and back. Set the saddle height so the knee is straight and locked when you have your heel on the pedal. With this, you’ll have some few degrees of knee bend when you pedal. You should always sit on the widest part of your saddle and be able to reach the handlebars without feeling stretched.
Q5: How long should one cycle at the gym?
This depends on the goal. If you wish to gain endurance for cycling events or daredevil biking trails, you must elevate your efforts and volume. Try riding at a pace where you can still speak short sentences and increase the time by no more than 10 percent a week. If you just want to lose weight, you can do cramming within short intervals. Start in a 5-minute warm up then complete 10-minute efforts with two minutes of rest in between. This routine is advisable for those who have time.
Q6: Any advice on the biking diet?
Unless you are riding for hours, we suggest you ditch your pasta diet. One shouldn’t eat too much before biking. Just put the right amount of carbs and not too many fats. You can try having peanut butter in oats, oats, or eggs on toast. Drink plenty of water, too!
Q7: What food should I take with me?
If you will ride in less than 1.5 hours, you can survive by sipping some water during the biking activity or hydrate with some energy tablets or a CLIF bar. For longer rides, low-fat and high-carb snacks are perfect companions. Bananas, Fig Newtons, and some raisins will get you going without carrying too much weight. Remember the formula: low-fat, high-carbs!
Q8: What are all these bike gears?
Road bike gears are so puzzling, especially for beginners. It is suggested to avoid a triple chainset with three rings on the front, and get a 2×11 setup or two rings up front. Then, refrain having a small-small and big-big combinations by changing on the front to avoid running a chain diagonal pitch.
Doing this is a big no since it increases wear and decreases efficiency. Overall, make two shifts on the back to an easier gear compensate when you make a shift on the front to a harder gear. This also works in reverse and with time, you’ll get the hang of it.
Q9: Why are “clipless” pedals called as such when they clip in? Should I prefer this pedal type?
Clipless pedals mean sans toe clips- which are common until Look introduced ski-binding-esque design in the 80’s. Clipless pedals offer more efficiency and control but can be challenging at first. Practice your clipless pedals if you are new to it on a well-paved trail such as parks. Practice clipping in and out on the grass with the pedals at their minimum release tension. Bikehint: Clip out before you stop and remember that all bikers fell over at least once when learning how to clip out!
Q10: What road bike size should I get?
We suggest you get one that allows you to easily reach the pedal, brakes and water-bottle cages. Your arms and leg reach will determine if the bike is too huge or small so try sitting on the bike and measuring these lengths before usage or purchase. Always try a bike before buying one. Bikes are investments, and you wouldn’t want to waste money on one. Having professional fitting and guide help select the perfect bike match for you.
Biking has a lot of things to teach you. Our list is just 10, and mind you — it can get even up to a hundred! Have a safe trip!
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