weight – Ride Far

Important Criteria for Choosing Equipment

December 20, 2017 Chris

Good bikepacking equipment doesn’t need to cost much. Reliability, functionality and repairability are often more important than weight or aerodynamics.

How Air Resistance of the Bike & Equipment Affects Cycling Speed

November 1, 2016 Chris

The effect that different bike equipment and accessories have on the average speed of typical long-distance cyclists is investigated.

Bikepacking Bags, Fenders & Locks

Chris

Advice on what types of bags to use for bikepacking and how they can be mounted. Also, whether to use fenders/mudguards for long-distance cycling.

Bike Wheels

Chris

Advice on choosing wheels for long-distance cycling, including explanations of the differences between various hubs, spokes and rims.

Bike Frames & Brakes

Chris

Advice on choosing a bicycle frame (material, geometry, etc.) for long-distance cycling and the pros and cons of rim brakes versus disc brakes on road bikes.

Bike Gear Shifting Systems & Derailleurs

Chris

Advice on choosing brands and models of derailleurs & shifters on road bikes for long-distance cycling, focusing on ergonomics, functionality & reliability.

How Air Resistance of the Cyclist Affects Cycling Speed

Chris

The effect that different clothing and body positions have on the average speed of typical long-distance cyclists is investigated.

How Tire Rolling Resistance Affects Cycling Speed

Chris

Tire rolling resistance accounts for 10% of the total resistance of typical long-distance cyclists. Using different tires can make average speeds vary by 5%.

Types of Resistance When Cycling

Chris

What are the relative contributions of the resisting forces of aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance & mechanical resistance for long-distance cyclists?

Method, Finish Times & Effects of Increasing Power on Cycling Speed

Chris

The effect of increasing cycling power on average speed was investigated and finish times predicted for a longer vs a more mountainous course.

Time Management & Measuring Time Efficiency in Bikepacking Races

Chris

Time efficiency when off the bike is at least as important as cycling speed in bikepacking and ultra-distance cycling races in which the clock never stops.

Introduction & Summary of What Determine Cycling Speed

October 30, 2016 Chris

Aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance & mechanical resistance all determine cycling speed, but how much do each of these affect long-distance cyclists?