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Knowing to ride a bike is a rite of passage. It’s an ability that takes us from three-wheeler to two-wheeler, from sidewalk to street. It’s also one of the easiest of life’s lessons to learn, but it does take effort to know how to ride well.
Your Body Position
Smart cycling begins with proper body positioning. Some individuals like to ride with their bodies in a low position, but this is not the correct posture. To reduce wind friction, it is best to sit as tightly as possible, and in a narrow posture. You and your bike will achieve maximum efficiency when your body is completely lined with the bicycle frame.
Your Knees
The position of your knees is equally vital. The proper riding posture will have you sitting comfortably with your knees bent at right angles. This posture will make your body more streamlined and aerodynamic, and will reduce the strain on your legs. The best way to arrive at the right knee position is the traditional method of placing your bike on a trainer and sitting square on the saddle. Put your heels on the pedals and pedal backwards. The correct height will have your knees straightening with minimal hip movement. It may take some time to get the position just right, but it is time well spent. When you get the right height, adjust the height of your saddle and secure it.
Your Arms
Your arms have to be positioned properly in order to cycle smart. When riding, your hands should be put over the brake lever hood. This is a neutral position that will let you to apply the brakes comfortably. Ensure that your hands are not angled in any position while you are holding the brake lever hood. Straight positions are perfect for smart cycling. When selecting your bike, ensure that the handlebar is not too wide. Adjust it so the distance between the handle bar and the top of the saddle is not more than four knuckles.
Most riders believe that the best way to ride is to have a bike custom-built. They are not necessarily mistaken, but the real source of smart cycling is in body adjustment. Even if you have a custom bike, you will have to learn to hold your body in the proper position to get maximum performance from your cycle. Weight should be shifted so that most of it is placed on the back wheel, to increase pedaling rate and optimize bike control.
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Chances are, you will replace and upgrade bicycles as you age. But if you opt to keep your bike for the long haul, you’ll need to adjust your riding position as your body reacts to natural aging processes and loss of flexibility. This will offer you a more pleasant riding experience and reduce the strain on your body.
Going from three-wheeler to street cycle is just the start. Smart cycling is simply about how you ride, not necessarily what you ride.
Tagged with: biking tips • safety gear
Filed under: Pain and Comfort