Monday, July 11, 2011

How to do Proper Bike Padelling?

Proper bicycle pedaling technique is not something that the average cyclist puts too much thought into. Taking time to examine correct pedaling form, however, can greatly improve your biking experience. Several bike components make your pedaling form more efficient, including the length of the crank and the positioning of the seat. Your leg motion also plays an important role in getting the most out of every pedaling stroke.
Crank Length
Most road bicycles feature industry-standard cranks that measure 170 mm in length. A crank's length in many ways determines how much power you can generate with each stroke. The shorter the crank, the less energy you can produce. Though 170-mm cranks are most common, you can switch them out for longer cranks. The next longest cranks measure 175 mm. Such an increase in your pedal rotation diameter produces more powerful strokes, though whether longer cranks are suitable for you hinges on a variety of factors, including your height and the size of the bike frame.
Bike Seat
The seat on a bicycle is adjustable for two primary reasons. First, it allows you to position the seat so riding the bicycle feels comfortable. Second, and perhaps most importantly, it helps optimize your pedaling stroke. Setting the bike seat at a proper height ensures that your leg is fully extended on the downstroke. If the bike seat is too low, your legs are unable to extend to the most optimal point for producing power. If the seat is too high, your stroke loses energy at the bottom of the downstroke, as your legs have to reach beyond their normal range of motion.
Leg Motion
Proper pedaling mechanics, in combination with the correct crank length and seat positioning, help ensure you are producing fully efficient strokes. Don't think of the pedaling motion as your legs simply moving up and down. Your legs must be completely engaged throughout the duration of each stroke, especially during the recovery. Push down with your toes on the downstroke and point your foot down slightly as you rotate around the bottom. Finish the stroke aggressively by pushing backward, engaging your calf muscles, before you pull your leg back up in preparation for the next downstroke. Your hips, knees and ankles, viewed from the front, should be aligned at all times.
Balance
Being balanced on your bike is paramount to getting the most out of every stroke. To determine if you are balanced, pay attention to whether your hips dip during the downstroke. If so, your seat is too high. Your hips should remain horizontal while riding and you should never feel as if you have to reach down to complete a stroke. Balance also means that your legs pedal without your knees bending out toward the sides during your downstroke. Your body should remain as compact as possible while atop the bike.