Cars take thousands of lives each day worldwide in automobile accidents. Some are results of driving under the influence of drugs or alcoholic beverages, while some are just too tired to be on the road. Instead of heading off to a place for some rest, the drivers will continue driving, so they are most likely prone to accidents.

Automobiles are also harmful to the environment. Cars leak liquids, and owners drive off without wiping the stain, leaving it for wildlife to taste. How many animals fall prey to these vehicles and become road kills in an instant?

Humanists, environmentalists, and animal lovers alike now have the solution for all the death, pollution, and killings. The answer comes with two wheels - bikes and how they can save your life.

Why You Should Start Using Bikes

No pollution is involved with cycling. It does not emit smoke, leak liquids, and is very quiet. Bikers also contribute to saving a space in a crowded parking lot as more than a dozen bicycles can fit in one slot of a car.

For pet lovers, you can tie your pet's leash on your handlebar and pedal to an easy pace so that your furry friend can run beside you. It cuts out the work for you.

For your pockets, cycling can help you save more money. No insurance has to be paid annually, and no license is required. No fuel bills either as your bike will run to the speed of your pedaling. The maintenance costs about a quarter of what you spend on cars per annum, and a bicycle, once well taken care of, can last for years, if not decades.

In a crowded mall for instance, your bicycle can be parked anywhere. You don't have to roam the parking area for agonizing minutes after minutes with the stress building up. You can just park it on one corner, secure it with your lock, and leave it to be ready for you until you're done shopping.

How Your Health will Benefit from Using Bikes

According to a reliable source, a cyclist's fitness level is equal to his health ten years ago. It can make you feel younger as you are still well in control of your limbs by the exercise, giving you power and building your stamina.

Irked by the way motorcycles pass by your car in the midst of a traffic jam during the rush hour? It can give you that same sense of power. Now, you can weave in and out of traffic, so you'll reach your destination faster.

It also reduces the risk of heart disease as your heart is healthy and receives proper exercise. In addition, it builds up your muscle legs to give you more power and strength. If you're a soccer player, then at least now you've got that strong kick you've always wanted.

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The longest portion of any triathlon event is the bike leg. This is also the most technologically complicated area of equipment purchase. Money can easily be wasted and expensive equipment can become obsolete if you are not knowledgeable.

Know your bike type

Bicycles come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and areas of best use. The storage compound for bikes at a race (the transition area) can be filled with mountain bikes, hybrids, racing bikes and specific tri-bikes. All allow you to get from T1 (the swim-to-bike transition) to T2 (the bike-to-run transition).

Frame size

When choosing a bike, it is vital to get the right size frame as, unlike many components, such as the three contact points (the handlebars, saddle and pedals), it can't be changed. Sizing your ideal frame size is best done by a bike shop or tri store. You can ask advice and the helpful staff will often pass on some useful tips and tricks, so try to develop a good relationship with them.

The bike frame size that is easiest to measure starts from the centre of the bottom bracket, up the seat tube, to a point where the middle of the top tube intersects - known as centre-to-middle. Manufacturers, mechanics and athletes all vary in how they measure frame size, but, as a ball-park figure, take your inside leg measurement and then multiply by 0.67. For example, 91cm x 0.67 = 60.97 or a 61cm frame.

The exact seat height can be varied by moving the seat post up and down. Similarly, change the distance of the handlebars by changing the stem length. Start with the right frame size and you will be more comfortable, safer and more likely to enjoy your time in the saddle. Correct set up is vital and is well worth the investment in time and money. The bike needs to put you in the right position; don't contort yourself to fit the bike. As bike speeds are higher than running, heat loss is greater and impacts with the ground harder, so it pays to buy a pair of cycling shorts, a cycle jersey and gloves. Longer or thicker 'longs' are needed if you intend to ride outdoors in winter.

Top Tip
Equipment that saves you time removes those wasted sessions and kit failures. Well-fitting goggles, quality tyres and inner tubes plus well-kept comfortable running shoes should be your top kit purchases.

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1. Stay Warm to Stay Riding

One of the main reasons that an individual might choose a motor vehicle over a bicycle in the winter is climate control. Frigid temperatures can make cycling seem unbearable. However, with the correct gear, a person can remain quite comfortable in some of the coldest weather conditions. Ski goggles are a great way to protect the eyes from extreme conditions. Tight fitting knit and fleece caps coupled with a helmet will allow the head to maintain most of its warmth.

The proper footwear is important as well, as regular cycling shoes do not provide the needed warmth in very cold conditions. Instead, regular snow boots are a good alternative.

Another great tip is to keep body parts as close together as possible. For this reason, mittens are a good replacement for gloves as it allows the fingers to stay in close contact allowing the hands to stay warmer. Whatever apparel is chosen, a rider should be sure that he or she is comfortable and can make good contact with handles and pedals.

2. Good Tires Are a Must

Another factor to take into consideration when cycling in winter is tires. A good rule to remember is that the wider the tire, the better the traction. More tire allows more contact with the ground. A cyclist can purchase studs or chains of their tires, but this will make riding on pavement much rougher. However, chains will greatly improve traction on ice or snow. Some riders find that lowering the pressure in the tires will allow for more traction when riding in poor cycling conditions.

3. Be Seen in the Dwindling Light

With winter comes a decrease in the amount of daylight, often times resulting in an increase in the amount of time a cyclist will have to ride in the dark. For this reason, it is very important for any rider to inspect his or her bicycle and make sure that the reflectors are clean and visible. Additionally, lights should be installed on both the front and the back of the bicycle. Drivers are more likely to be distracted in the winter and visibility could be reduced, so a rider can never be too safe. Lights and reflectors are the best protection in the dark of winter.

4. Practice Proper Bike Maintenance to Stay Safe

Keeping a bicycle clean and well lubricated is important in regard to winter riding. Fenders and mud flaps can protect both rider and bicycle from dirty, slushy, and salty roads. While any grease will be suitable for a bicycle, some might find benefits in using a grease designed for low temperatures. While a bicycle does not have to be winterized for the cold weather in the same way that an automobile does, it is a great idea to re-grease the bearings in the fall in order to prepare for the extra dirt and grime of winter riding.

5. Keep It Steady

Finally, it is important that a cyclist maintain their ability to control a bicycle in winter. A cyclist should remember to pedal their bicycle smoothly and avoid in quick jerking motions. As a general rule, slow and steady will be better in the winter than speeding up and slowing down. If a cyclist does find that they are sliding, they should try to correct with small movements and avoid any major swerving. Much like in a vehicle, over-correcting could easily lead to a crash.Generally, snow will require more effort to pedal through, but will allow for better traction than ice.

Winter is a time in which temperatures drop and weather often deteriorates. However, this does not have to deter a person from choosing to cycle during the cold weather. Whether it be bitterly cold temperatures or a barrage of winter precipitation, following these cold-weather riding tips can allow a rider to enjoy the perks of cycling throughout the cold weather months.

Darla Blackmon writes for EverythingLongBeach.com, a website for the Long Beach community that covers news, arts, entertainment and health. Riders on Long Beach bikes rarely have to worry about cold weather. But, she's prepared just in case.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/5-top-winter-tips-to-help-bicycle-riders-get-through-the-cold-1696100.html

You may burn off your additional calories by using a cycle. If you work out for about an hour and are putting a steady strong effort into your cycling you might expect to burn around 400-500 calories. Your calves, hamstrings and quadriceps receive a workout when you do this exercise. Because these muscles are larger they will need more energy and enable you to possibly burn more fat and lose more weight. You could also be able to develop the muscles on your legs and hips so that you will achieve a great looking body.

The muscles that protect your pelvis and spine also usually benefit from this form of exercise. The risk of injury to your lower back can be greatly reduced when you strengthen these muscles. Lifting and carrying things might even become easier and your posture could improve.

Cycling may also be good for your heart. The cardiovascular system’s health is increased when you exercise enough to raise your heart level to its maximum capacity for a longer period. When you walk, jog or run vigorously, you can also achieve this goal but it often places more strain on the hips, knees, ankles and feet. If you wish to introduce this form of exercise into your workout schedule, you may consider using a heart rate monitor. One of these devices will help you to understand your MHR (maximum heart rate) and get the most out of your exercises.  

Changing the difficulty levels is also worth considering when cycling. This will enable you to get a change of scenery and also give additional work to your heart and muscles. Different trails with more hills and forested paths could be a good choice for this. No matter what you select it is good to consider different challenges and above all have fun.

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Cycling increases fitness and overall well being; let’s find out how.
• Cycling requires full lower body and upper body strength. It builds your stamina and endurance.
• Safety is another important aspect of any workout. You need to choose activities that are good for your body. Out of all the other cardio vascular activities, cycling is the safest, as it offers good support while working out.
• It is not as strenuous as running on a treadmill or working out on an elliptical machine. If you cycle, you will not be prone to muscle soreness and joint pains. Spinning classes have become a new sensation in gymnasiums all over the world.
• Cycling is good for the heart. It makes the heart stronger and lowers the resting pulse.
• If you need to lose weight, it doesn’t get better than cycling. You work every inch of your body. Cycling increases your metabolic rate and helps burn fat. Cycling is great way of breaking someone into a new exercise programme.
• Cycling can turn you into a mini explorer and encourage you to take some time out. All you need is your bike, proper cycling clothing and a spirit to move out and explore familiar streets and routes. This will help you with stress management and just make you feel good about everything around you.
• With everyone trying to go green, consider cycling to help Mother Nature. Cycling short distances will reduce pollution and also lessen traffic congestion. In fact, many countries all over the world are promoting short distance biking. Cycling short distance will help you save money on commuting and fuel.
• There are many cycling clubs in cities all over the world. This is a great way to workout, help the environment and make new friends. Join a bike club and be part of all the fun!
If you are considering biking, then you require proper cycling apparel. The right cycling clothing and accessories are very important for a safe and comfortable ride. You can find the cycling apparel you need at the website www.fusionsportsuk.co.uk of Fusion Sport, UK.

Joseph Magliaro is a Sports & Fitness Consultant working in the industry for 15 years. He has authored a book and owns a Sports Clothing and Equipment store. He is a blogger and loves to travel.

www.fusionsportsuk.co.uk

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Nowadays, there are several brands, models and types of this particular product. There are those that have a trip ride timer, a 12/24-hour clock, total odometer, speedometer, trip counter, etc. There are 5-function, 8-function, 9-function, 10-function and 18-function units. There is a wireless bicycle computer that has specialized sensors that can measure the biker's pulse rate. There are some that has a cadence and speed transmitter. Aside from keeping a record of the rider's speed and trip mileage, there are units that can keep a record of your bicycle's next service schedule. And due to the wireless technology, gone are the days that you have to strap this tool around the fork, stem, handlebar, etc. This technology also reduces obstacles when you're biking. There are models that have a screen display suitable for biking at night time.

So if you are considering to buy one for yourself, it's best to compare units first on the internet. There are product-specific sites that are committed in finding the best and the widest variety of cycle computers. Reading testimonials would also make your canvassing easier. Look for one that will not only suit your budget. Choose a unit that has several important functions, this way you are assured that you can assess your performance as well as keep track of your improvements.

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Dawes Bike Offerings
Dawes was one of the first companies to produce a complete single speed mountain bike, the Edge One.
Some vintage Dawes cycles have a distinctive curved seat tube that parallels the rear wheel closely, in order to reduce the wheelbase.

This British brand of bicycle has a long heritage of making great quality bikes. From tandem to folding bikes, and even BMX and freestyle bikes, Dawes has what you need. You can even convert one into a Dawes fixed gear bike (why not!). Check out these different styles and offers and figure out if Dawes is the bike brand for you. You just might find what you're looking for.

Types of Dawes Bikes

12" Wheel (2 1/2 to 5 yrs)
14" Wheel (4 to 6 yrs)
16" Wheel (5 to 7 yrs)
20" Wheel (7 to 9 yrs)
24" Wheel (9 to 11 yrs)
BMX - Dirtjump
BMX - Freestyle
Leisure Bikes - Comfort Bikes (26W)
Leisure Bikes - Fast City
Leisure Bikes - Folding Bikes
Leisure Bikes - Hybrids
Leisure Bikes - Traditional
Leisure Bikes - Trekking
Mountain Bikes - Front Suspension
Mountain Bikes - No Suspension (Rigid)
Mountain Bikes - Womens
Racing - Cyclo Cross
Racing - Road Racing
Racing - Single Speed
Tandems
Tourers / Audax

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Common Injuries:
Most of the conditions listed below are related to overuse/overtraining. An overall remedial approach would be to decrease the amount and type of training.
Other changes need to include a stretching regime and an increase in rest days. As noted previously, the bikes set up needs to be taken into account as well.

Ulnar Neuropathy:
Or hand numbness, this is related to pressure on the handlebars for extended periods of time.
Adjustments to the cyclists position is essential, this will enable the pressure
to be taken off of the area and redistribute the weight of the body appropriately.

Overtraining:
Athletes sometimes in order to reach a goal forget to rest and allow the body to have enough time to build on the effects of the training. Too much
of something is not necessarily a good thing, and in this case, less is
best.
Some of the signs and symptoms of overtraining are: tiredness, pain in muscles and joints, a drop in performance despite the amount of training, increased incidence of injuries, insomnia, headaches, moodiness, irritability, depression, loss of enthusiasm for the sport, decreased appetite, decreased immunity seen by an increase in
colds.

Piriformis Syndrome:
This is related to overtraining, in particular working the area of the gluts. Piriformis is an external hip rotator, and if overstressed can build in size to the point of putting pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain or numbness down the leg or in the hip.
Other factors that need to be taken into consideration are postural and biomechanical behaviours as well as the set up of the bike.

Knee Pain:
This can be difficult to diagnose unless you have an appropriate level of
knowledge and training.
It can range from ligament problems (ACL, PCL, LCL, MCL), meniscus tears, to conditions such as Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, and Chondromalacia.
Accurate diagnosis is key, immediate treatment if acute is to apply R.I.C.E.

Achilles Tendinitis:
It is a chronic overuse of the tendon which crosses the posterior portion of the ankle joint.
Further recommendations are to stop speed and hill training, and to include remedial massage techniques to increase length and decrease tension
of the tendon.

Bike Set Up:
Usually speed and efficiency is the prime reason for the setup of the athletes bike, it is quite different from the more casual rider, who is not entering a triathalon or duathalon. The basis for their set up is more likely geared towards comfort. In both cases it is vitally important that the set up is appropriate and does not unduly stress areas of the body.

Whether you are just starting out or have been cycling for years, the right set up for your body type and particular discipline is essential to remaining injury free.
There are a vast range of bikes such a mountain bikes, road bikes, and hybrids.
The appropriate position is based on the body parts that make contact with the bike. The three points that determine this are the hands, feet and seat. The relative position of each of these will affect the efficiency and comfort of the bike.

There are several variables that will determine the position of each of these; the crank length, distance from crank centre or bottom bracket to the saddle, saddle angle, seat tube angle and saddle offset, distance from saddle to handlebar, relative height of saddle and handlebar, handlebar width and handlebar drop on road style handlebars.
Even if your client has been cycling for years, or competes at a semi professional level, they may never have had their set up evaluated and not realise how much more comfortable and efficient their ride could be. The fitting is best left to professional bike fitting services unless the person has the relevant knowledge.
If they are running into problems, this is definitely one area that should be assessed.

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Whether you are a recreational cyclist, an XC mountain bike racer, a bicycle road racer or a triathlete, 101 Cycling Workouts is a must-have guide to help take your cycling to a new level.  Rejuvenate and refresh your cycling training with a wide variety of workouts you've never thought of before.  Add challenge to your training by trying new workouts that will develop you into a better and more fit cyclist. 

These workouts will add depth to your training by working on all the physiological systems of a complete cycling training program, including endurance, aerobic and anaerobic fitness, strength, speed and power.  Additional non-cycling workouts and gym workouts are included to supplement your training on the bike.   Use these workouts to train harder, smarter and more efficiently by making the most of your vital training time. Introductory chapters discuss how to use these workouts and how to incorporate them into a structured training plan.

Review

This e-book contains 101 training workouts for road cyclists. It is intended to provide you with a menu of many possible rides and workout options as you plan your training rides and program. There is no reason to be bored or reach a plateau in your training if you use even half of these workouts. Workouts are grouped according to the type of physiological system trained, so you can easily find workouts for the given objective of the day. Remember, every ride or workout should have a purpose: to improve some aspect of your cycling fitness. Each chapter gives you multiple workouts to target each particular physiological system.

This book can also serve as a companion to training plans and other books which offer a training outline but don’t provide specific workouts, or a wide enough variety of workouts. So try a variety of workouts offered in this book. Just remember to ask your physician before beginning a strenuous exercise program. You won’t like all of these workouts, but you will also find some that become favourites. The important thing to remember is to continue to stress your body in new and different ways.

That’s how you will improve, by continually changing up your routine and throwing different workouts at your body. The workouts contained within this book can do that for you.  

Verdict

101 Cycling Workouts is essential for your cycling library!

Get one and enjoy!

Rating

Rating: 5/5

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Being in the right is not enough. You don't want to be dead right. Defensive driving is important for motorists and even more important for cyclists.

Bicycle accidents can be rather severe and you should know your rights if you are involved in one so that you can be fully protected under the law.

Safe Bicycling Laws

Bicycle safety starts with a bicyclist understanding the laws regarding safe bicycling. If you are involved in a bicycle accident, knowing the laws can be of great help. Of course, knowing and following the laws are the best way to prevent accidents and to protect yourself if you are in an accident. If you are on the bicycle and you are obeying the laws then you will be the one in the right legally, after an accident.

Bicycle laws vary from state to state and usually correspond with that state's driving laws. There are laws regarding the equipment and laws regarding the road.

Generally, bike equipment laws include that the bicycle has working brakes, handlebars are in a proper position and the size of the bike fits the rider. After dark, bike riders are required to have a light on the front of the bike and a reflector on the rear and on pedals.

Road rules for the bicycle rider include obeying all traffic signals and signs, signaling when turning, riding as close to the edge of the roadway as possible and obeying all other traffic laws.

Prohibited Activities

In addition to the rules and laws the bicycle rider must follow, bicyclists must also refrain from certain activities while on the roadways. These restrictions are for the safety of both those riding a bicycle and for other vehicles on the road.

Prohibited activities include:

- hitching to a vehicle

- using a seat that is not permanently fixed

- riding with additional passengers not in a legal seat

- riding without both hands on the handlebars

The Department of Transportation or local authorities have the right to prohibit or restrict bicyclists on any roadway or area. These areas will have signs in place to warn of the restrictions.

If you are riding a bicycle and you are not obeying the laws, then you can be found at fault in an accident. That is why understanding the bicycle laws and regulations in your area are very important. The first step in keeping yourself safe while riding a bicycle is understanding these laws and following them.

Of course, even laws and regulations cannot completely guarantee that you will be safe. If you feel unsafe or unsure when riding your bicycle you have to be careful and get out of the situation. You need to look out for yourself. On the roadway, bicyclists are the ones that are at the most risk of being severely injured in an accident. It is always wise to try to avoid dangerous situations while riding on the roadways. Obeying the rules and staying alert while on the roadways is the best way to avoid a bicycle accident.

Rex Bush handles personal injury cases in Utah. For info on injury issues visit his website: Personal Injury Utah. Should you hire an injury lawyer? Visit this page: Utah Injury Lawyer.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/bicycle-accidents-what-you-must-know-1369197.html

Bicycle racing is something that exists since middle of the 19th century.  It is only at the start of the 20th century though that it took the form that it has at present.  Some of the first bicycle races ever established still exist and are in fact considered to be the most prestigious worldwide.  Of the many bicycle races held yearly, few of the most famous are the Grand Tours, the Olympic races and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).  Fast gaining popularity are the cyclo-cross racing and the mountain bike racing.

The Grand Tours are made up of three world renowned races, the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia (or simply Giro) and the Vuelta a Espana.  Even non-cyclists have heard of the Tour de France, the most famous of the three.  This race, founded in 1903, takes three weeks to finish, is made up of 20 stages and covers about 2,000 miles.  The cyclist with the shortest time in each stage wins the race.

The cycling races held in the Olympics started as early as 1896.  Some of the cycling events have already been forgotten but new ones are now held.  Today’s Olympic games have bike competitors vie for road cycling, mountain bike races, track cycling, off-road competitions and BMX.  These races are fought according to gender and some are done in teams.

The UCI races are composed of several prestigious races that is popularly referred to as the UCI ProTour.  It replaced the UCI World Tour in 2005 and now includes the Grand Tours and other sought after cycling races such as the Criterium de Dauphine Libere, Paris Nice and Tour de Suisse and other one day races like the Clasica de San Sebastian, Milan-Sanremo, Ronde van Vlaanderen and other famous races.  Cycling is generally a summer sport and most of these races are held either in spring or in fall.

Once you learn how to choose a bike, buying subsequent bikes is a piece of cake. You can't just see a bike that is shiny and new and say that it is for you. Most important of all is the fact that the shiny bike will stay in the garage until it tarnishes if you don't like how it handles.

1. Where will you be riding your bike? This question gets the ball rolling. There are bike shops, fitness stores and department stores carrying bikes but just a few main types of bikes: mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, cruising bikes and road bikes. How often you will ride and the route that you choose determines the best type of bicycle for you.

2. How tall are you? This factor is important because a short person doesn't want to have a bike that will cause them to hit the crossbar every time they try to stop the bike. Ouch! A bike that is the wrong size for you can mean cramped legs and sore knees or stretched muscles. For the answer to this question, you'll actually have to sit on a bike or at least stand next to one.

3. Ride a bike. Don't let the first bike you ride be the one you purchase from the store. Ask a friend for their bike to "test drive" in advance.

4. Buy the best bike you can the first time. In a recession especially, people have the tendency to stay on the cheap side. Listen; there are some things that don't pair well with "cheap." A bike and a car fall into that category. You will be riding this bike alone or with a carrier for your child. You want to know that you can depend on your bike to keep you safe while you ride. You don't have to spend 300 bucks but get the features you need for the best price.

5. Visit a bike shop for advice. When you want to know something you go to the experts. Those who sell bikes for a living know about bikes. Go here first to get sized for a bike, learn the type of bike you need and find out all the nuances of bike riding. You might decide not to buy a bike from a specialty shop because of the price but you will now be armed with the knowledge to choose a bike from another store without being taken for a ride.

Choosing a Bicycle Seat

Bike riding can be fun but that fun will become irrelevant if you are uncomfortable. The one part of the bicycle that riders complain about most is the seat. If the butt is not feeling good, nothing else matters.

When you buy a bicycle, the seat is not missing. You will get a seat but it won't necessarily be the seat that is best for you. Don't be afraid to replace it. In fact, if you don't replace it, your bottom will pay the price.

1. Take a look at your bottom. This is not a joke. Most bicycle seats are small and quite firm as a standard. Competitive cyclists like these seats because there is less movement as you pedal. Constant rubbing can cause chafing which is not good for long rides or any ride at all. If you are fuller in the rear, a wider or softer seat may be in order.

2. Examine the seat shape. Most seats have the same basic shape but there are subtle differences that are important. Seats that slope down on the sides do not support larger bottoms. It is hard on the tail bone and your lower back. Some seats look more like butterfly wings and provide more support by sloping up slightly. Seats with a center channel helps to keep you stationary on your bike without a lot of movement from side to side.

3. Consider a gel seat. Maybe a bigger seat is not the answer especially if speed is your choice. A larger seat makes it harder to pedal faster. Seats are narrow in front for that reason. If the seat fits your bottom and the shape is fine, adding a gel seat can keep your bottom cushioned on longer rides for greater comfort. Gel seats are a great way to stay comfortable when taking a spinning class as well or bouncing up and down on a mountain bike.

4. Learn to adjust your seat. Sometimes the problem is the height of the seat. A seat that is too high means you are straining to reach the pedals. This downward pressure puts more pressure on your bottom on that seat. Can you imagine how much that would hurt? Adjust your bicycle seat so that you can touch the pedals and still maintain a ninety degree angle with your body as you pedal. If the seat is still too hard or it hurts, then look at other possible solutions.

5. What are your riding needs? If you are just riding on occasional outings, a wider seat is acceptable. You aren't trying to pick up speed or win a race. A narrower seat helps with maintaining speed in competition. A small hard seat can put bumps and bruises on your butt if you are riding over uneven terrain.

A properly fitted bicycle seat is important for all riders. Shop well now to avoid lots of pain later.

There is more to bike riding than just riding. That's the easy part. Choose your bike wisely to get the best for your money.

First of all, its light frame reduces the amount of weight riders need to carry up steep inclines. Secondly, thin tires reduce friction and improve aerodynamics, allowing the rider to reach the highest speeds. Finally, the curved handlebars encourage riders to assume a crouched position, reducing wind resistance. And while these are the basic features of a road bike, improvements can be made: lighter metals can be used for the frame or electronic gear shifters can be attached.

Races can be structured in a variety of formats. The Tour is an example of a stage race in which the winner is the rider who accumulates the least amount of time by the final stage; other honors are awarded to individual stage victors, the best mountain climber, and the best sprinter. Races can also take place in a single day. These courses can range in length from several kilometers long to a relatively short circuit that is repeated. Short circuit races are called criteriums and are more popular in North American racing circles.

Cycling owes its roots to a German by the name of Karl von Drais. His 1817 two-wheeled contraption relied on feet for locomotion. Improvements in later years substituted metal for his wooden frame, provided pedals, and mounted rubber tires on wheels with wire spokes. Road bikes eventually transformed shapes to accommodate new styles of riding; mountain bikes can ride on dirt trails and the BMX bike can perform tricks. And while road bikes have come to be used for a variety of activities, including leisure and commuting, their most exciting purpose remains under the skilled hands of a racer.

T. Alan Armstrong expressed it perfectly. Passion is what life is all about. It is what we here at We Keep You Cycling believe in. Cycling isn't just our business, cycling is our passion. We strive day in and day out to get you the best cycling gear possible so you can feed your passion as well.

We build quality tools to empower you. We write informative product descriptions to help you make informed decisions. We do our best to make your cycling experience, and shopping experience, as pleasurable as possible.

We also believe in world class service and support. We promise you that every item we sell is brand new so you know each and every bike party you buy from We Keep You Cycling is still "from the factory" quality, and still has that new bike part smell. We offer real time order tracking, fancy zoom images on our website so you can really see what you're buying before ordering, and of course, same day shipping on all orders placed before 3PM Pacific.

We know that credit card security is crucial, so we provide the highest in credit card protection available. Your credit card is checked against Visa/Master Card's 5x5 security system and we never store the numbers. We provide real time inventory so you will never see the word "backorder" on your receipt. We are able to do this each and every time because we process your order within minutes of receiving it (Monday-Friday) and our inventory update is simultaneous.

Some of our exclusive cycling products include a Tread Life Estimator that will give you accurate estimates on your remaining tire tread life. We offer a Life-Size Saddle Fitting and Comparison Tool to compare before you buy and our exclusive Cheek to Cheek kit which helps you determine your sit bone width, to get you on the right saddle.

If you have any questions or suggestions on how we can make your biking experience more enjoyable, please let us know. We love to talk about bikes!

And here is a little shameless plug of our recent accomplishments:

· Near Real Time Order Processing - within minutes of receiving your order we've processed it and are shipping it
· View Saddles by Make, Type & Width (WKYC Exclusive) - combined with Life-Size helps narrow down your selection
· Cheek-To-Cheek Sit Bone Measuring Tool (WKYC Exclusive) - Determine your sit bone width at home
· Life-Size saddle Fitting & Comparison Tool (WKYC Exclusive) - compare saddles in your home before you buy
· WKYC Writes & Photographs products - Provides real product insight and excellent photography
· Tread Life Estimator (WKYC Exclusive) - providing accurate estimates on tire tread life
· Same Day Shipping - all orders placed before 3PM Pacific ship same day

So in what ways is cycling good for you?

There are a number of ways in which your body benefits from cycling, though perhaps the most important in terms of helping to extend your life are the cardiovascular benefits.

Cycling is what's known as 'aerobic' exercise. Aerobic exercise uses, and improves, the consumption of oxygen in the body. While this in itself may not sound like anything special, it actually results in a number of benefits... In terms of the heart, cycling can strengthen the heart muscle which means it's stronger and can pump blood more efficiently. It also strengthens the muscles used for respiration, and hence helps the flow of air in and out of the lungs. The whole of the body's circulation is improved, which helps to reduce blood pressure, and the number of red blood cells in the body is increased, which helps the flow of oxygen.

All of these factors will help to improve the function of your heart and respiratory system, which should in turn decrease your chances of suffering from heart disease.

There are other health benefits too though: Aerobic exercise works by breaking down glycogens in your body and producing glucose. Glucose is then broken down by oxygen to produce energy. If we cycle for a longer period, and work ourselves a little harder, all of the glucose reserves in the body will be used. When this happens our bodies instead turn to our fat reserves, breaking down fat in order to produce energy. Of course we all know that when excess fat is broken down this should in turn result in losing weight.

Probably more obvious to many people are the muscular benefits, because cycling can tone many of the body's muscles. This in turn will give you more strength and flexibility, and you're bound to notice this even in your every day life, as many tasks will become easier as you get fitter.

Finally there's the fact that cycling can be enjoyed by many people for whom other sports are not possible. Jogging or running have a higher impact on the joints and can't be enjoyed by many people who suffer with arthritis in their knees, for example, whereas cycling can.

I recommend you spend a little money on a cycling computer. You hook this up on your bike (don't worry, it's not a complicated procedure!), and then depending on the model you can keep a track of various things whilst cycling. Try to find one with multiple functions - most obviously these will be: distance travelled on this trip, time travelled, distance travelled in total, current speed, average speed, and calories burnt. Do bear in mind that the calorie counter is just a guide, but it's satisfying to see the numbers increasing all the same!

If you use the cycling computer whenever you go on a ride you can keep track of all your statistics. You can then use this information to monitor your increase in fitness levels. You should see your numbers improving after several weeks of regular cycling.

These are just a few of the benefits of cycling off the top of my head. The simple fact is that cycling is an enjoyable sport which will get you fit and in shape while having fun. If you're not doing so already, go out there and get yourself a bicycle and start cycling. And have some fun getting fit.

Cycling Shoes are specifically designed keeping in mind the need as well as comfort of the cyclist. Foremost they are lightweight and comfortable so that a cyclist must enjoy his ride and don’t have to worry. Cycling shoes are formulated with new technology and materials and plays a promising role to enhancing the cycling experience.

There is a wide range of shoes having styles and designs, allowing the buyer to find the perfect shoe for a cyclist. Quality running and cycling shoes are fit well and look good too. Grip is another area that differentiates better shoes from good ones. Spikes and anti-slip pads help in maintaining firm hold of the pedal.

When you decide buy a pair of cycling shoes, you have to consider few points such as sole materials; it is the most important part of shoes that eases out the major pressure points and will also reduce the weight to a large extent and also help in transferring power. To reduce the sweat produced inside the shoes while riding on cycle mesh is provided on the upper part of the shoes.

While selecting the shoes for the purpose of cycling even on the mountain the most important thing you need to remember is the weight along with the mesh and the sole of the pair of shoes.
Thus, Cycling shoes are formulated keeping in mind all the above mentioned qualities so that a cyclist must relaxed while cycling whether on road or on mountain and might not get tired soon. And you don’t have to forget about the color and style while selecting the shoes having technical specification as well. Infact, cycling shoes are available in several colors so that matches the cycle color and adds a zing to overall look.

Information on Bicycle saddles, Bicycle tires, Bicycle seats.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/cycling-shoes-fit-well-and-give-you-more-protection-with-good-looks-1106396.html

In fact, you can often get around faster on a bicycle in such areas as opposed to in an automobile due to the fact that gridlock makes it almost impossible to get around in a car. Better yet though, not only will a bicycle let you get somewhere very quickly and efficiently but the operating cost of a bike is extremely low. Given this, you should consider using a bicycle for some or all of your transportation needs if it makes sense. It is great for the environment, your pocketbook, and your health.

If you are looking for a bicycle but you also want to keep tight control on your budget then you should consider used bicycles. You will likely be able to find some very well maintained used bicycles that will meet your needs.

As a bicyclist you should have a first aid kit, a bicycle tool kit, a cell phone and food and water. These items will make sure that in the event of an emergency you will be safe and get home as soon as possible. A cell phone is incredibly important so that you can call for help in an emergency. You may find however that you are in an area without service. If that occurs, you will need to depend on your other supplies.

In case of an accident, a small first aid kit will help treat minor wounds such as cuts and scratches. You can carry a regular first aid kit or find bicyclist specific kits. Make sure that they include the following: band-aids, antiseptic, tweezers, pain reliever, tensor bandages and moleskin. If you have any known allergies such as bee stings, be sure to carry an epee pen. Likewise, if you are asthmatic, you should also carry your inhaler. Even if you don't plan to be away for a long period of time, the unexpected can always occur. If you take any sort of medication, make sure that you bring it with you on any mountain biking excursion.

You should also purchase a bike specific tool kit. Minor repairs may need to be done while on your route, having the appropriate tools will save time and headaches. In addition to tools, you may want to carry and extra bike chain. As any seasoned biker can tell you, it is very easy to bust a bike chain while you are riding. A spare can be easily switched out and you will be back on the road in no time. Finally, an air pump and other tools for fixing a flat tire are great tools to have on your journey. These kits include lightweight tools that will fit easily on your bike. Make sure it includes and Allan key or small wrench, a chain breaker, a tire gauge, a Swiss army knife, and some strong tape. If you are new to mountain biking, ask a seasoned biker what they have encountered on their trips. They will most likely have some great stories, and some wonderful suggestions as to what you should have on hand.

One last thought, though no less important, is water and a small snack. In case you are stranded, having water and something to keep your energy up is imperative. Try an energy bar or something else that includes protein and complex carbohydrates. Now that you know all of the necessities, you are ready to head out on the trail. Being prepared will ensure a fun, safe experience.

Mike Dire is an avid cyclist and sports enthusiast. He is also a partner in an online bike rack store.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/bicycling-preparedness-1076215.html

What you will use your bike for will have the greatest impact on what type you purchase. For those individuals who are looking to bicycle simply as a way of losing weight, a stationary bike may be the best bet. Stationary bikes come in both regular and recumbent (you will sit lower and put less stress on your bike) and are used indoors entirely for weight loss and exercise benefits. You can find these in a variety of prices and styles. If you aren't sure that a stationary bike is for you, you may want to attend a spinning class at your local gym to find out if you enjoy this type of activity.
Some people will choose to use their bicycles for transportation. If this is the case, there are two types of bikes to look for. The first and most popular is a commuter bike. These bikes are strong and sturdy and often have racks to hold things. They can be found in one speed and geared models. Another bike called a folding bike, allows the rider to fold the bike for easy carrying and storage.

For people who wish to ride with small children or families, there are children's bikes and tandem bikes. Children's bikes are smaller in size and come in many styles. You can add training wheels to these for little ones just starting out. As a family, you may want to try out a tandem bike. This allows several people to ride together and helps you keep track of everyone as well as bond as a team.

For the more experienced rider who is looking for a challenge, there are mountain bikes, BMX bikes and Cyclecross bikes. Mountain bikes are lightweight and durable. They are built to handle rough and uneven terrain. This type of bike will allow you to explore trails that would not have been possible on a regular bike. BMX bikes are compact and extremely strong. They are used for tricks and competition. Cyclecross bikes are also suitable for uneven roads but are generally used for racing.

Be sure to figure out what type of cycling you would like to do before shopping for a bicycle (and set a budget). Doing your research beforehand will give you the best chance at a wonderful cycling experience. Speaking with professionals and fellow bikers is another way to ensure that you will purchase the correct bike for your needs, and have the best experience possible.

Mike Dire is an avid cyclist and sports enthusiast. He is also a partner in an online bike carrier store.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/types-of-bicycles-1068713.html

Riding bikes can be both fun and a great way to increase your physical strength. Mountain bikes are the most common types of bikes. There are plenty of other bikes that are available to cyclists like BMX bikes, tandem bicycles, Cannondale Bicycles, unicycles and tricycles. All of these bikes are usually used for various amounts of activities that include racing, exercise and physical endurance.

When it comes to riding mountain bikes and other bicycles there are plenty of things that you should know before you decide to start pedaling bicycle. You should be familiar with the upkeeps, bike safety, stopping properly, preventing accidents especially with road racing bicycles.
It is a great idea to check out the pedals of your bike before you decide to purchase one. Make sure that pedals have some solid grip that can help your shoes get a good grip so that you can break easily without having your feet slip off the pedals. This is a great way to prevent an accident. Make sure you understand basic maintenance tips when it comes to bicycles and mountain bikes. It is fairly easy to maintain a bike. The chains and tires are easy to take care of. You might also want to purchase a some biking clothes so that your experience is a lot more comfortable and you need to purchase a bike helmet for your safety!

Weather you are buying a new mountain bike, a used bicycle or a group of road bicycles it is good to do a little research. The research will give you knowledge and help you become a responsible biker.

The best way to evaluate your cycling form is with a few appropriately positioned video cameras. Although you may encounter flats, up hills and down hills on your bike ride, the general position for cycling is the same and therefore you can benefit greatly by improving the efficiency of your cycling power stroke. Although there may be various inclines and flat sections, your position during the ride is generally constant, and therefore you can benefit greatly by improving the efficiency of the cycling power stroke. The power stroke is the cycling pedal stroke including the push down and pull up of the pedal.

Assume you are sitting on the saddle of your bike with your upper body still (as it should be). The power required to turn the pedals over comes from the muscles in your hips, thighs and calves. This power is transmitted to the pedals, and from there drives the cogs and so on, turning the rear wheel.

Now for some basic physics. In order to push down on the pedal or pull the pedal up with the greatest force and the most efficiency, you will want your muscles to generate a force that pushes or pulls directly down or up on the pedal (depending on whether you are in the down stroke or up stroke of the pedal motion). Your hips, knees, and feet all need to be aligned correctly to produce a purely vertical force on the pedal.

In the image above we have the side view of a cyclist. The cyclist cannot use his thigh muscles to push directly down on the pedal but we can see that his knee is directly above the middle of the pedal which will allow him to push down efficiently as he straightens his knee. The force (red line) from his thigh muscles will be transmitted along with the force from the calves to the pedal. If his knee was in front of the pedal he would be wasting energy pushing backward, and if his knee was behind the pedal he would not be able to produce as much downward force because his knee would straighten too early.

A camera looking from the front would give us another important perspective. With this angle we will be able to see whether the hips, knees and feet all line up with the center of the pedal. Once again we want all the joints to align with the center of the pedal, so that all the force is generated directly through the pedal. If the cyclist's knees pointed outward rather than forward, he would be losing efficiency by generating a force that is not directly in line with the pedal. If he did this, he may also suffer from injuries as he attempts to maintain the same speed. He will need to recruit different muscles or strain ligaments and tendons to make up for his lack of efficiency

Video analysis of your cycling technique is easy to do with a couple cameras and a stationary bike. A side on view allows the cyclist to evaluate his position on the saddle as well as his knee and foot position.

A front on view allows the cyclist to check the forward alignment of his hips, knees and feet.

For a more detailed analysis you can also use video analysis software to calculate the angles and accurately measure the positions.

Lance Armstrong will be in action again this year at the Tour De France and we look forward to seeing what he can do. Lance has spent many hours in testing wind tunnels measuring his bike performance, but we are sure he also uses this data to fine tune his biomechanics for maximum efficiency. So get out your video cameras and film yourself in action.

Dudley Tabakin is Co-Founder of Sadaka, LLC http://videosportsanalysis.blogspot.com, a motion capture and biomechanics consultancy. Clients include FootJoy, Titleist, Warrior Hockey, Vicon Motion Systems, Innovision Systems Inc. and other Sports and Motion capture and biomechanics software companies

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/improving-your-cycling-efficiency-with-video-analysis-1004473.html

Find our what's new at the bicycle shop by bookmarking us and/or subscribing to our RSS feed. Upgrading to clip-less road bike pedals can improve every aspect of your road cycling, from hill climbing to riding corners. Learn how to choose road pedals in this free bicycle accessories video guide.Expert: Jeff Cook Bio: Jeff Cook opened All Sports in London, Ontario in the spring of 1998. He has hosted mountain bike races for more than ten years, including everything from local races to Canada Cup national events. Filmmaker: Melissa Schenk Whether you're interested in road bicycle, BMX bikes, mountain bikes, racing bicycles, tandem bicycles, or something else related to bicycles, you can always find it here at your friendly, neighborhood (virtual) bicycle shop!

Find our what's new at the bicycle shop by bookmarking us and/or subscribing to our RSS feed. Buffalo Bill's grave sits at an elevation of 7326 feet (2232 metres) on Lookout Mountain just west of Golden, Colorado. Not only is it a popular tourist spot but countless bicycles make their way up the winding road for an excellent workout at about 1600 feet (488 metres) of elevation gain from Golden. Angela, the lady running the Buffalo Bill museum, said they've had cyclists make it to the top in 17 minutes. I wasn't watching closely enough but suspect it took my friends and me well over ... Whether you're interested in road bicycle, BMX bikes, mountain bikes, racing bicycles, tandem bicycles, or something else related to bicycles, you can always find it here at your friendly, neighborhood (virtual) bicycle shop!

Find our what's new at the bicycle shop by bookmarking us and/or subscribing to our RSS feed. I took an old school bicycle and modified it to hold an engine. I took a two-cycle lawn mower engine and rotated the carb to make the shaft horizontal. Then I used a belt pulley for a manual clutch. The pulley goes to the normal bike chain which makes it a 7-speed! I can only get it up to fourth gear then the chain falls off, but thats around 50mph, fast enough for me on a bike. This thing runs really well its really fun to drive. I was a junior in high school when i finished this.... Whether you're interested in used bicycle, BMX bikes, mountain bikes, racing bicycles, tandem bicycles, or something else related to bicycles, you can always find it here at your friendly, neighborhood (virtual) bicycle shop!