Messages

1

General Discussion / Re: Need Help With Shifting on Climbs

« on: June 08, 2013, 01:50:04 pm »

Pat,

Thanks.  Actually, I should probably disclose that I grew up on bikes.  My dad founded a company called Wheel and Sprocket which grew into an awesome retail bike company in the Midwest.  But then... I got really, really, really fat.  So for a long time I didn't (couldn't) ride.  In the past three years I have worked on my health and brought my weight down and have even done two triathlons in the past two years. 

So... riding across Washington State is my next project.  I'm really excited about it, and also nervous.

I practiced shifting on my ride last night -- I purposely chose a pretty flat path so I could just shift up and down, up and down.  Tonight I am going to try it on some hills.

The cadence is something I have never paid attention to, so I am glad to get that advice!  It will also take some work to get the rhythm and systems of using both gears effectively.

Thanks for your encouraging words!

-Jennifer

2

General Discussion / Re: Need Help With Shifting on Climbs

« on: June 07, 2013, 05:52:01 pm »

Thanks guys; this is all very helpful.

I think I am waiting too long to shift (ie. waiting until it gets pretty hard before downshifting).

Also..  I hate to admit this, but I only ever use my right shifter -- I think it's the rear derailleur.  I think I need to practice this on flat road and then put it into action on the climbs.

I also have not yet pedaled my road bike standing up... only seated.  I have stood and pedaled in my spinning classes -- just lack the confidence, balance, etc. on the road bike. 

I have a Fuji.. I think it's a Roubaix.

3

General Discussion / Need Help With Shifting on Climbs

« on: June 07, 2013, 11:06:11 am »

Hi All...

I am new to long distance cycling and am preparing for a long ride in September.  One thing I have noticed is that my shifting on climbs (downshifting into it and then up shifting out) don't seem to be very efficient.

Wondering what advice I can get or methods I can practice from those of you who are experienced riders.

Thanks!