Category
Tips and Advice
Guides and advice on bikes and training.
Training and racing at altitude
2014 presented South Africa’s top cyclists with a ‘new’ challenge as some of the major races took place at moderate altitudes. The first race of the 2014 MTN National MTB series took place in Dullstroom and one of the SA XCO Cup Series races took place at the Afriski resort. These two locations would have […]
Planning your training
The purpose of all the hours we spend training for a specific event is to improve our performance. Depending on your current level of fitness and experience, improvements could mean finishing in the middle of the pack rather than at the back, winning your age category, or taking the top podium position at the elite […]
Strength training for endurance performance
The benefits of strength training on endurance performance have long been debated. Previously strength training was thought to negatively affect endurance performance due to increases in muscle mass and the feeling of tired or heavy legs. However, recent research has shown that it is possible to improve endurance performance by incorporating well-structured strength training as […]
Technique: Pedal stroke – Pedaling around the clock
There many theories behind correct pedaling technique and how one can utilize the optimal muscle groups to achieve perfect cycling ergonomics. Ultimately the best way to achieve that smooth circular motion is to train the correct muscle groups. But which are the correct muscle groups to be used? A good indicator that you are not […]
Bike fitting: Crank length
The decision on crank arm length is often an over looked factor in bicycle setup. When purchasing a new bicycle, crank length is never really considered, however, it can make a significant difference to your overall cycling performance and pedal efficiency. Image credit: Zoon Cronje [blockquote]First learn to spin a small gear. Then get strong […]
Bike fitting: Handlebar choice – Details Part 2
Following our last article on handlebar selection, this article discusses back sweep in mountain bike handlebars, and how to select a bar that works best for you. In the previous article it was determined that a wider bar is better when referring to leverage and control. Image credit: Zoon Cronje [blockquote_s=Archimedes]Give me a lever long […]
Bike fitting: Handlebar choice – Details Part 1
Following our last article on handle bar width, readers felt more information was needed on specifics such as riders shoulder width vs handlebar width, handle bar back sweep/rise and stem length/angle. In this two part article, we tackle these questions and explain how correct handle bar setup can improve your cycling. Image credit: Zoon Cronje […]
Bike fitting: Handlebar choice
Being one of the major contact points on a bicycle it is important have the correct shape and size of handlebar setup correctly for you. In this article we explore different options of handlebars, and how you can make this selection work for you. Image credit: Zoon Cronje Have your shoulder width measured from outer […]
Bike fitting: How to choose the right frame size
It is important to get the right frame size for your body geometry. The correct frame size for you will be noticeably more comfortable and help with improved handling rather that a frame that is too large or small. Choosing a mountain bike frame size Place your feet shoulder-width apart, and measure from the bony […]
Bike fitting: Cleat setup and foot position
“Hot feet” and “Numb Toes” are a common condition faced by most cyclists, often related to cleat position and/or equipment choice. This article aims to highlight the different aspects of cleat and foot positioning, their effects on power transfer as well as difficulty in maintaining efficiency through the pedal stroke. If the shoe fits “Hot […]
Bike fitting: Saddle choice and general position for women
So what saddle should a lady be looking for? There’s a confusing array of choice and opinion on offer to those seeking a ladies specific saddle: short and fat, hard and thin, cutout in the centre, chromo rails, titanium rails, gel inserts, gel padded covers… So where do you start? Using the right saddle can […]