Efficient Cycling for the Commuter
Have you caught the cycling bug? Want to shave precious minutes off your morning commute? Wondering about ways to maximize your comfort so that you can go on longer rides? Wondering how to coax a little more speed out of that old mountain bike?Cyclists are guaranteed to enjoy themselves no matter what they ride. But, in the long run, the type of bike, and how it is maintained, does matter. Most will discover that commuter cyclists have some different needs than those just out for a bit of exercise. From fenders to tubing, the little choices matter.
Efficiency is what the bicycle is all about. While you may not necessarily want to go faster, no one complains when the going gets easier. If you feel slow, don't blame yourself.
Have a look at your bike and see if there isn't some way to make gains in efficiency.
Most gains in efficiency involve reducing rolling resistance one way or another. Remember, on the transportation scale, bike parts cost next to nothing. And the skills required to do the labour are accessible to all of us.
Compared to the cost filling up the gas tank, improvements to your trusty steed cost very little. For the price of a car payment or two, you can afford to rival Lance Armstrong in the gear department, if you really want to.
Top 5 Tips on How to Make Your Bike "Go Faster" & Farther
1. Swap knobby tires for slicks.
If you ride on pavement, get tires that are made for pavement.
Ever noticed that big knobby tires make a buzzing sound? That buzzing is sound energy - - some of the energy that would otherwise be used to move you forward to where you want to go. Much more of that energy becomes heat. The friction generated by big knobby tires can make the difference between arriving at work after what felt like a hard workout and arriving at work feeling refreshed.
Knobby tires shine when climbing wet, muddy hills or rounding sharp corners on gravel at 40km/hr.. If this does not describe your daily commute, you should probably consider a pair of slicks. For less than the cost of a tank of gas, you can get your hands on a set of long lasting, puncture resistant tires. Ask your local bike shop.
Don't hesitate to add slick tires just because you want to use your bike for the occasional weekend trail outing. Unless you are serious about MTB racing, you will find that good quality road tires will work just fine off-road. You may even appreciate the elimination of rolling resistance and find that your bike stays cleaner.
2. Inflate your tires to the maximum pressure.
If you look on the sidewall of your tires, you will notice instructions on tire pressure. The amount will vary depending on the width and type of tire. In general, it is best to make sure your tires are inflated to the maximum. You will roll faster, and receive the maximum protection from potholes. If fully inflating the tires makes the ride feel bumpier, resist the urge to under-inflate. Rather, consider a wider (but somewhat slower) tire.
3. Adjust/Overhaul your bearings.
Ball bearings are tiny replaceable parts that facilitate motion, and reduce friction. Bearing systems are located all over the bike, but nowhere will they slow you down more than in your hubs. Cyclists (or their mechanic) need to take good care of their bearings, making sure they are always well greased, clean and free of debris. It is well worth doing once a year - - more often if you ride alot, and especially if you ride through during the winter. Sealed cartirdge bearings are an even better bet. Ask your local bike shop.
For more info on Bike repair, see Repair in the resource section.
4. Make sure your bike fits you.
As long as your frame fits you, the arrangement and choice of parts usually allows that frame to respond to your needs. There are as many different configurations as there are body types. Recognize that bicycles are made to be easily adjustable, and that you don't necessarily need a new one if you aren't happy with yours. Talk to your local bike shop about finding that right adjustment or right combination of parts that will make your current bike feel like it fits you again.
Sore knees? Look at your seat height. You will know that your seat is at the right height when, with your butt on the seat and your heel on the pedal at 6 o'clock, you should be able to lock your knee without lifting it off the seat.
Sore wrists, neck, back? Consider raising your stem. Consider changing the length of stem, or type of handlebars.
Sore backside? Try adjusting your seat forwards or backwards on its rails. Make sure it is set at the right height. Consider lowering your stem, to take more pressure on your wrists. It's all about balance. Consider a newer, more ergonomic seat.
5. Lose Weight.
Not you - - - the bike! What we're talking about is unnecesary weight and parts on the bicycle.
The simpler the better.
When buying a bike, choose it carefully. There are many types of bike out there, from the ultralight velodrome bikes with no brakes, to over-built downhill mountain bikes with suspension everything. Not all are geared toward the everyday commuter.
Consider a bike that suits your needs. Look for one that is both light and durable. Choose bells and whistles very carefully. The less maintenance the better. There is a bike out there for everybody, just make sure you know what you want. The nice thing about cycling for transportation is that you can continuously improve your bicycle, and the parts are affordable.
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