Bicycling FAQs For Both Newbies And Pros

 

Whether you’re completely new to cycling or are a seasoned pro, it’s only natural to keep learning about your favorite activity. After all, new information can keep you from making painful mistakes — like opting for a padded saddle instead of a tried-and-true leather bike seat — and can ensure you get the most out of every ride. Below, you’ll find some common questions asked both by inexperienced and expert cyclists alike. How many do you know the answers to?

Which is better: a mountain bike or a road bike?
In 2012, around 25% of all the bicycles sold by specialty bike stores were mountain bikes. But just because a bike is popular doesn’t mean it should (or shouldn’t) be your choice. Ultimately, the best choice of bike comes down to what you want to use it for. Mountain bikes are meant to be ridden on tougher terrain, valuing control over high speeds. That said, they can definitely be used on conventional roads. Road bikes, on the other hand, are meant for smoother streets and can reach higher speeds. Each type of bike has its own features and specialties, but one isn’t inherently better than the other. If you have more questions about what kind of bike you should purchase, go to a specialty bicycle store near you to explore further.

Is it a good thing to be sore after a ride?
Cycling should be a workout for your legs, but there’s a difference between muscle soreness and saddle soreness. Perineal pain is never normal and may indicate that you need get one of the most comfortable bike seats on the market and adjust it accordingly. You should sit on the widest part of the saddle, reach your handlebars without stretching too much, and make sure your saddle height will allow you to have a straight knee when your heel is on the bike pedal. If you’ve already equipped your bike with one of the most comfortable bike seats around and have adjusted your saddle height, you may want to look to your clothing choices for the reason behind your soreness.

Do I have to wear specific clothes to ride?
Although it might seem like baggy sweats are the way to go here, those “comfy” clothes are better suited for being a couch potato than for riding a bicycle. You don’t have to have a cycling uniform, per se, but there are certain clothing items that will allow for better comfort during rides. After all, what’s the point of having one of the most comfortable bike seats around if your choice of attire could be causing you pain? Spandex bike shorts are usually a good choice (there are even ones with padding for extra protection), as are items made from breathable fabrics. Above all else, your cycling clothes should be smooth and taut to the skin so that they don’t wrinkle; these fabric lumps can lead to painful spots during long rides.

Are some types of bike saddles better than others?
In a word, yes. Even though cushy, padded saddles might seem like the most comfortable bike seats available, they actually are very poorly suited for cycling. You might be surprised to learn that it’s the sleeker saddles (without all the bells and whistles) that are most comfortable for longer rides. Leather saddles are considered to be among the most comfortable bike seats around, but carbon fiber saddles are also good options. Whatever you do, don’t believe that picking out a saddle that feels as soft and plush as a pillow will do you any favors. It will end up causing a lot more pain than you’d realize.

When it comes down to it, there’s a lot that both seasoned cyclists and total newbies can learn about best bike practices. If you need assistance choosing a saddle or other bike equipment, we’re here to help. Contact us today to find out more.