I have a Giant TCX cyclocross bike and I use it mainly for road riding and commuting - it has full-time mudguards/fenders and a rear rack I can install and remove at will. If you're fine with the added rubber weight, 32 mm road tires are a great idea. Coming from 28 mm tires, I find 32 mm is the point where tire VOLUME plays more of a factor over tire PRESSURE. Running both at 80 psi means the 32 mm tire slips in the wet, but you don't need that high of a pressure because it's already plenty grippy at 45-55 psi while being more comfortable to boot.
OMG about the front quick release skewer I've had that same exact issue twice swearing it was my BB. The first time I even went out and completely overhauled my bike with a new BB, regreased seat tube, new headset bearings. I spent all this time an money when all I needed was w40 on my skewer
The headwind/tailwind question was me. Silly question, never thought they'd actually answer it. lol... But it goes beg the question - what is more beneficial when riding with a tailwind, sitting up more to make your back like a sail to get more push from the wind (which has been recommended on a GCN video) or getting low/aero so that you still get some push from the tailwind, but also cut some of the wind resistance as you go forward since you're out-riding the wind....? hmmm.... a GCN Does Science idea perhaps??
it's funny how the Scott used in Simon's video to show frame size,it now looks retro with all the changes to frame design aerodynamics and other recent technological advancements
I love the unwritten rules. They are what sets cycling apart and above (IMO) from other forms of racing. Being a gent on the bike is the way forward ............. unless of course you're trying to rip the legs off of your mates :)
#Torqueback I did a century ride once and there was a guy along with a Bose bluetooth speaker strapped to his panniers. A lot of my group overtook him on one of the big climbs on the route, and we were able to tell how close together we were by what part of "Stairway to Heaven" was playing as we passed him.
I know a few years back there was all sorts of concerns about Carbon breaking without any external influence (overtightening of bolts, impact etc). Just how has Carbon moved on in recent years? What sort of things can cause carbon parts to crack these days (braking on steep descents, potholes etc.). Just how robust are modern carbon bikes?
Commute back and forth to work. Depending on the hours you work, you can put together a really good training plan. Say you are riding 30k to work one way. Wake up in the morning have a glass of water a couple pieces of fruit and a date or two. Wrap a piece of banana and take it with you if you are prone to sweat a lot or if legs are prone to cramp. After you get to work eat a good breakfast. And there you have whats called a "fasted effort." Proven way to gain muscle power and endurance as well as training your body to burn fat.
During a recent outing on my single speed, another cyclist asked the gear ratio of my bike and the gear inches. I told him the gear ratio, but said I had no idea what gear inches are. Can you explain gear inches and tell me why I should care about them please?
just talking about Creaks and noises..my bike was making a clicking noise on every revolution....checked everything...including fittung new BB.! thought..yeah thats sorted...bloody noise still there...and eventually looked at QR on back wheel..!! tightened it ever so slightly..and hey presto !! noise gone..so..if you have a creak..check front and rear QRs FIRST(in 30 yrs of cycling never had this before lol )..save yourself cash...Happy Cycling :0)
When you say you're really gonna try hard to be fast during the quick fire round and then on the first question take absolutely ages to answer it! Haha #torqueback
#Torqueback It seems that pure cyclists are sneering at or even disliking triathletes. Where does that "hatred" come from? We all love cycling (and some also swimming and running) so what's it about?
I've heard stories of people confused because it felt like it was raining on a sunny day when it turns out they were behind a triathlete pissing themselves.
Dear GCN, would you be so kind to include a short segment on compatibility issues between different groupset between brands and within one brand itself? I've run a few Google searches already, but I haven't found a satisfying answer regarding the issues with braking power. Are there certain brands that deliver the same leverage in regards to braking? The travel length for each click when gearing is different, but if the brakes could be run satisfyingly it could allow me to run Ultegra/Dura Ace brakes with my Campag groupset. I hope I haven't asked a question that you've answered already ;) #AskGCN #Torqueback
Because of that video, I still mutter "knob" if someone doesn't "hi" back to me. Even if a wry, slight smile isn't returned, they still get a muttered "knob", 50 meters later.
#torqueback how do you tell the difference with all the different tyres? Putting aside the difference of clincher/tubular/tubeless, what features should you look out for when choosing one? For example, Vittoria and Continental have such a broad range it's difficult to tell what is what. Is it just weight and compound? If so what is recommended?
You can definitely go too wide on the road tyres! I had 37mm Vittoria Hyper Somethingorothers on that I've just swapped for 28mm GP4000's which are noticeably faster
dansheep13 - rolling resistance tests showed that the is only a relatively small penalty up to 32mm, but after that there is a noticeable penalty. That assumes you are using similar relatively good quality light flexible slick tyres across the range I use 32mm gatorskins, not the lightest but good puncture resistance. Faster than my old narrow supposedly faster tyres when I am going through the potholes and off-road tracks
When the GC leaders jersey changes hands, how do teams get their version of the jersey? Do they all bring a just-in-case leaders-version of their team's jersey?
#torqueback Given how much effort is made to keep the TT bikes as light as possible (like removing the paint job which was mentioned in one of your videos), why are all of them equipped with a front mech? Seems like 11 gears would be more than enough to go through a flat(ish) course at any desired cadence.
Russell Howard Just like a car, I think it is good to rotate (swap) your tyres so they wear out evenly. Normally the rear tyre should wear faster so watch the tread or indication marks and rotate tyres when there is a obvious difference between front and rear.
famous last words: "why not, go for it." But I will say playing music can be a tricky topic in terms of biking. If you are on a quiet country lane, you may just want to enjoy the view, but it is a great time to listen to music because no one is around. If you are on a trail or in a city / town and wish to listen to music, while personally i would say go for it, others may not have the same opinion, which becomes increasingly likely in populated areas. If you do wish to play music however, try to avoid explicit music, as explicit music tends to make people more upset than non explicit music.
Hey Guys, New bike question. Is there a bike that can do it all? I don't want to get dropped while doing a century with my mates but I'd also like the gearing and tyre clearance to go on dirt trails for bike packing. What do you suggest? Roubaix, Domane, Diverge, Terra?
In regard to music, I do have a speaker for my bike. When i ride with others I turn it off but when i ride alone (most of the time) I have my music playing. In my area of the US technically headphones are illegal. Unfortunately that is not enforced, even when people are driving their cars with headphones in! Most police don't even know its a law.
#Torqueback Can you have a 1/2 electronic and 1/2 mechanical bike. For example, di2 right shifter, di2 rear derailer, left mechanical shifter, and front mechanical derailer?
#torqueback road bikes with "relaxed" geometry will have top tubes that are angled down, but does that actually do anything if you raise your saddle to the same height as you would on a bike with "normal" geometry
#TorqueBack. I cycle commute, turbo train 3-4 times a week and complete a weekend ride with 1 or 2 rest days in total. Even though my cardio is good my legs get very fatigued after a while. However, off the back of a 7 day holiday my legs feel great and very strong - yet my cardio has suffered (probably mineral water related). Is there a simple way of identifying optimum rest without it hitting performance? I love the fresh legs feeling but no fan of blowing out of my backside.
To get more aero I decided to lower my Handlebar all the way down my Fork, i.e. move the spacers from 'below' to 'on-top' of the Handlebar. As a result, the handlebar is now 3 cm lower than before. The more aggressive position is still comfortable, howewer, after a long first testride I found out that the bike's handling has changed dramatically: What used to be a very agile but still increadible precise machine has tourned into a sluggish and spongy bike that is very hard to turn and does not corner well at all. Question: Does lowering the Handlebar have such a dramatic influence on the handling, especially on the cornering of the bike? Do I have to readjust/adapt my position on the bike to get the precise handling back that I enjoyed before lowering the handlebar? To tighten the Top cap of the Handlebar I used a torque wrench, which however, was broken, so I totally overtightened the Handlebar. When I noticed that one of the spacers started to break I disassembled the Headset and retightened everythyng by hand. Did I maybe damage one of the bearings, when I tightened too firmly the first time? Does that maybe explayn the sluggish handling? How do I know if I have damaged something? Please help, I'm desperate. #TorqueBack
if you pick the bikes front wheel off the ground it should flop freely from side to side and feel smooth around the entire arc. There should be no play in the headset with the front brake applied and rocking on the bars. You don't use a torque wrench for the top cap. It is just tightened the minimum amount to remove bearing play. I would definitely get it checked by a mechanic. Or watch a you tube video and do it properly yourself.
Alex - when you lower the stem, yes you get more aero, but because the headtube and stem are at an angle, you're also moving the bars and stem further over the front tire which is most likely putting the weight of your upper body slightly in front wheel center line, as seen from the side view of the front tire. This will cause the bike to feel "sluggish". The stem length sweet spot for most frames is between 100 - 120 mm, though I understand climbing specialists often run longer stems. Make sure you have not compromised your saddle position, by rotating your pelvis too far forward as this could have other side effects on your comfort, especially over long rides. For an experiment buy an inexpensive aluminum stem, from some like Deda Elementi about 1 cm shorter and swap it out - pretty quick with common tools. This way you will get some of that handling back and saddle position back and keep your aero position.
Hey Rob, thank you for your suggestion. I found out that the Bearing was damaged due tu grit & Dirt and could not be cleaned properly. After replacing it, the bike behaves smooth again. The new aggressive position is indeed affectiong the handling a bit, but not in a bad way. I already got used to the Bike's dynamics and I'm really enjoying my bike!
I think the people selling nitrogen for tyres are just a little bit dodgy, air is 78 percent nitrogen and only 21 percent oxygen, the remaining 1% is other gases and water vapour. So you are practically riding on nitrogen filled tires even when you use just air. Then there is the rubbish argument that nitrogen prevents seepage... there is almost no difference between the molecular size of nitrogen and oxygen, so the difference in seepage between oxygen and nitrogen is insignificant. Then there is the furfy that water vapour in the tubed or tubeless tire causes more 'corrosion... how many of you have ever actually observed excessive corrosion in your alloy or carbon wheels from using air??? really guys, the impact on these metals is insignificant at best, and what about all the air that mysteriously isn't corroding the outside of the said wheels??? Anyone sucked in by this nitrogen marketing bull needs their head examined... www.racq.com.au/cars-and-driving/cars/owning-and-maintaining-a-car/car-maintenance/nitrogen-for-tyres
The process of getting pure nitrogen into tyres is pretty complicated. Probably the most advantageous property of a tyre filled purely by nitrogen is that it's perfectly homogeneous and you can precisely calculate how is temperature of the tyre going to affect the pressure. Also, the tyres will be slightly lighter. Extremely useful if you own a formula and are racing it. Getting nitrogen filled tyres for your car pretty much means getting scammed. While the advantages are still there, there is no way you're going to take advantage of... those advantages. Getting nitrogen filled tyre or your bike is nothing but placebo.
It's pure BS as far as bikes are concerned. The reason cars and motorcycles use it is that air is unstable at consistently high speeds - over 100 mph because it will expand throwing off braking and handling characteristics of the chassis and tires. This is simply not an issue on a bike unless you can pedal 100+ mph. Someone wants to sell you Nitrogen for your bike tires, ask them to please explain why and what benefit you will receive. Send that answer to me so can laugh my ass off.
#Torqueback After Tom Dumoulin won the Giro one friend of mine said that are times back now that TT-specialists will dominate Grand tours again. Has there been a period when riders specialized in time trialling really dominated the General classification of three week tours?
You should do a video on hybrid bikes. I personally hate them, but there is a segment of people out there that make a concious decision to buy a bike that rides like crap on both the road and the trail. I'm sure they have a place in the world and there are people that love theirs, but to me they are just bikes for people that don't ride bikes.
#torqueback any tips on going to see a grand tour mountain stage? My friends and I are thinking of going to the Peyresourde finish in the tour this year, but we're a bit unsure about the best place to stay/get to the stage? (i.e. is it best to walk up, just so you don't have to leave your bike anywhere (risk of someone stealing it/carry a heavy lock up the climb))
#torqueback cross chaining; I hear that small front cog and smallest rear cog and vice versa is a no no; but what degree of cross chaining is acceptable? In the giro there were tv shots of cyclist in the big ring on the front but high up the cassette on the rear.
#torqueback Please explain Thru axle lengths and diameters ! I am getting lost with all those sizes ! Why so many ? Which ones are the norm ? I don't even know which one my Giant Advanced Defy has ?!
#Torqueback Why can't Sprinters climb? I understand that it's to do with development of anaerobic vs aerobic systems. However I thought bigger muscles will help to put much more torque through the pedals on the climb and manage it to go faster on climbs. Is it to do with not being able to sustain long periods with a very high heart rate? Thank you if you include my question in the show.
Everyone knows that feeling when you want to ride your bike but you just simply don't have enought time. The question is after what period of time the fitness level start to drop significantly? Should I feel guilty if I don't ride for the whole week?
I'm about to start a 10 week teaching internship to finish my degree, where it's too far to practically cycle with my time constraints. It's possible I won't have any spare time to ride during this time (normaly commute 120klms a week, and love it). We'll feel guilty and fat together, ok Filip? :)
Filip Kapałczyński I injured my leg earlier this year and was off the bike for about seven weeks. As I couldn't move easily I did no other exercise either. It has taken me ages to get back into, partly because I was busy, partly because I just couldn't ride as are as I could before and it wasn't as fun. Pretty sure there's a video on recovering from injury, which might cover your question, too.
JMS yea I've heard about long term break side effects. It's horrible. But I wonder about short break fitness lost, like a week. Anyway thanks for info, will definitely cheack the video :)
#TorqueBack - Can you explain Mamils to an American? I am slightly older than Matt, wear lycra but don't consider myself to be a Mamil since I have been cycling for a very long time.
My dad always insisted that you store your bike in the little ring and the smallest gear so that the derailleur springs have the least amount of tension in them. Does that actually make a difference?
Stan Normile interesting.. I'm no expert but that would cross the chain and probably reduce its life. I always leave my chain in the smallest chain ring and the 3rd smallest cog.
Amateur Triathletes are not allowed to draft and because of their tri-bars they cannot ride in groups, which is where most club riding happens. I'm a pro-guide in Mallorca with Mallorca Cycling Tours and took out a group of triathletes on hire bikes from ProCycleHire in Port Pollensa. Without tri-bars I managed to get them riding as a group and eventually to do through-and-off...and they loved it... It's not the triathletes who are to blame...
I think that even if the pro teams can afford or are given the lightest bikes to ride and then they break often it won't be good for 1. the riders falling more often 2. races when they need the bike and 3. The bike brand will not look dependable if racers are constantly needing a new $10,000 bike because it just broke. It would not make a regular consumer confident in the bike they are buying.
#askgcn when I put my front wheel in and tighten the quick release to the correct tension, the wheel wobbles left to right slightly in the forks but not enough to touch either brake pad when the brake calipers are fully closed. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks GCN
#TorqueBack. Not sure if torqueback is the right hashtag but have you considered a video to determine the most useful metric to use between power, heart rate, cadance and feel? Today I went up a local hill (Nunburnholme Hill, 1.4KM, 8%av) 3 times, each time removing one of the removable metrics. Difference between was quite dramatic. I thought Lasty would enjoy being sent up a local hill of yours repeatedly...for science.
#torqueback Coming from running, I started cycling two months ago. Me: 1,84m(~6") 84kg, 38yo. I did my first "tiny" Col this weekend 12km 800mD+ at 7% up to 2000m altitude. It was a 1h20min of torture, my HR was at 170bpm on average, out of breath. How can I _SERIOUSLY_ improve my climbing, because I really felt like an idiot being in that much of pain. I live near the Mont Ventoux, and I want to climb that sucker properly !
I have a bottle cage zip tied behind/under my TT bike saddle for my triathlons (because aero). Would it be frowned upon to do the same for my road bike and use an empty bottle to hold extra food, tools and other things that wouldn't all fit into a saddlebag for those longer training rides? #torqueback
#Torqueback which one should i upgrade first on my roadbike? is it my cycling shoes (currently using mtb shoes and pedals) or my wheelset (currently using alloy clinchers)? fyi i'm a racer, not a casual commuter. thanks
#Torqueback One of my cycling friends has problems with giving it everything everytime because he 'knows' (read: Thinks) he would always do worse than me (no matter how hard he's trying), at least that's how it seems to him because he's never won a sprint against me. How do you change your mindset so you are doing the best you can?
#Torqueback. does high and low air pressure have much effect on your training rides.if so how much and if you train in predominant high pressure does it make you faster if you race in low pressure?
#Torqueback Do you have any tips on getting rid of tiny scratches on a matte black finished frame? I really love the matte black finish but after a year of heavy duty riding, my frame is just covered with tiny scratches and marks. Is there any way to erase them without destroying the finish?
Hi gcn! The only time I can ride my bike is early in the morning because of work and family, so I tend to do it before breakfast. The odd time I do get to ride in the afternoon I feel so much stronger and tend to go faster. Is it all down to the food I have eaten during the day? If it is without getting up ridiculously early to eat what else can I do?
#torqueback Up til now I've only used, and still use, a cheep pair of bib shorts with my stock Specialized saddle. But recently I've completely changed my diet, training schedule, and started riding 60+ miles a week and my question is whether it is more beneficial (bum comfort wise) to upgrade my bib shorts or my saddle to a high end version? thanks and as always love the show.
oh and I have to say, if it wasn't for GCN and all your help videos I probably would have never taken my road riding to the next level. By next year I'm hoping to be fit enough to do some actual races
#Torqueback Hello guys, I have a problem to keep up with my riding group on flats. I have about 60 kg, so I can kick their ω, while they weight more than 20 kilos more and when they push the tempo, I always get dropped. I tried some "power" sessions, but my lack of power is still too significants. Any tips? Thanks!
#torqueback i rode with some new people this weekend. they weren't very good at keeping a steady pace, eg., hitting the brakes and the bottom of a descent or stopping pedaling at the start of an ascent. As a result, I frequently overlapped the rear wheel of the person in front of me, for which I was chided by one of the riders. Who was being rude - them, me or both?
Not that I think you did this purposefully, but sounds like you should have dialed it back a notch, especially because it's a new group and you don't want to rub anyone the wrong way. More experienced riders may not have an issue with occasional overlap, properly gearing for hills, carrying momentum etc, but it sounds like you were with a group that wasn't quite at that level. Sometimes being the more experienced rider means the understandign the level of those around you and adjusting accordingly.
#torqueback Some of my mates joke that they could be pro if they had a better bike, but how much of an improvement does a pro bike make vs a basic one? On flats and on a climb?
How does elevation gain actually work? - Would a 100 km with 4000 meters of elevation gain effectively be "longer" than a 100 km with 400 meters of elevation? #torqueback #askgcn
Elevation gain means gravitational potential energy, which translates into additional physical work you must exert to overcome said elevation (apart from the work to overcome rolling and wind resistance). For fixed power output, Time = Work/Power, so the higher the work the longer the time, or equivalently, the higher the elevation gain, the longer the time.
#Torqueback hi guys, I'm looking to buy a bike for my wife, she has recently started triathlon and road cycling, and loving it. We have £600 budget should I concentrate on a nice frame and wheels, e.g a brand like orbea. Or concentrate more so on the components, e.g Shimano Ultegras, or sram? thanks guys.
#torqueback #gcn hey guys quick question... non-poopo related! What's the most efficient way of getting your water-bottle from ? Seat tube or down tube or any other tube?? Thx uuu!!! Jo
how does the fit on a road bike related to the fit on a TT bike? Are the "reach" and "stack" values still appropriate or different for the different position on each bike? #askGCN
Hi guys, cycling in thailand at 42° (real feel 49!), wondering: How does physical toll differ, cycling in hot weather (40°+) vs cool (20°) ? (ie 100km in heat is equivalent to ? Km in cool temps)? We did 118km yesterday and it felt like several thousand #torqueback #askgcn. Thanks
#torqueback what would you prefer, low end aluminium frame with a top of the range groupset, or a top of the range carbon frame and entry level groupset?
Given the choice, is it better to have a tailwind on the climb / headwind on the descent? or to go the other way & have the headwind on the climb / tailwind on the descent? or does it make no difference? #torqueback #askgcn #mybrainhurts
#torqueback Is there really any difference between the proprietary brake pads for different carbon wheels? Why would a carbon specific pad damage a carbon wheel?
#Torqueback #AskGCN I hit a pothole while decending and put a healthy bend in my aluminum wheel. Should I bother trying to fix it, or throw it in the bin?
#torqueback how do you take enough water with you on long rides? Do you ride around like a domestique with a whole load of bidons? If I drink what I'm supposed to I would run out of water halfway. I could buy some 750ml Camelbak bidons but that only gives me 200ml more than what I currently have.
Organised rides usually have refill points. If I go for a long ride I do either of 2 things: I make sure I pass a place like a bar or restaurant where I can refill, or I take backpack along with extra bidons or in extreme cases a camelback 3L bag (warning; heavy..you want to empty that first).
#TorqueBack #ASKGCN Do bike frames fit different body types better than others? should body type (physical characteristics and current flexibility) dictate the type of frame someone gets?
Regarding the 32 mm wide tyre, yes, it can provide a softer ride because it won't need as much pressure. But no, it probably will not be faster -- even though it may have less rolling resistance. Whenever we talk about going faster, we need to step back and look at the whole picture because there are multiple factors involved. And the biggest impediment -- by far!!! -- to going faster on a bicycle is not rolling resistance. It is the AIR RESISTANCE!!! That big 32 mm tyre may have a lower rolling resistance (if it's designed to have a low rolling resistance -- size does not guarantee greater or lesser rolling resistance) but it most definitely will be less aerodynamic than a 28 mm road tyre and the increased air resistance will most likely be larger than the typically small decrease in rolling resistance. This would be true even if someone made an aero wheel for a 32 mm tyre (I don't think anyone does). The rolling resistance of a tyre depends on more than its patch size on the road. It also depends on the rubber compound, sidewall flexibility and methods of construction. We need to remember that comparisons of tyre rolling resistance cannot be made without actually measuring them because the rubber compounds and construction techniques vary so much from one tyre manufacturer to another and from one model tyre to another. I don't believe that any of the fastest road tyres in the world are available in a 32 mm width. For example, the Continental Grand Prix 4000 S II has consistently measured to have one of the lowest rolling resistances for a road tyre (it's been in the top 10 for years). The largest width it is available in is 28 mm. I challenge you to find a 32 mm road tyre that has a lower rolling resistance than the 28 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II. As far as I know, no one is making a 32 mm tyre with the same kind of low-rolling-resistance rubber compounds and construction techniques. If someone did, it would probably have a lower rolling resistance -- but no does (as far as I know). So it's a moot point. A 32 mm tyre may, in theory, be capable of a lower rolling resistance than a 28 mm tyre but no one makes one that does. How can we use tyre size to make decisions about rolling resistance? Answer: Only within the same tyre model. If we compare the 23, 25 and 28 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II, we can safely assume that the 28 mm model has the lowest rolling resistance in the line. But we cannot assume that 25 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II has a higher rolling resistance than a 28 mm Conti Gatorskin (in fact, the opposite is true). Why? Because the blend of rubber and the construction technique of the Gatorskin increase its rolling resistance. This is the danger when comparing different model tyres. The only valid way to make these comparisons is to look at actual rolling resistance data gathered using a standardized measurement.
Depends on the speed and terrain for that air resistance, surely mate? A commuter who's averaging 18k/h would be better off with a 32mm tyre, and my untested and completely youtube-comment-section-science assumption would be they need less watts to maintain that speed, and would be more comfortable. Happy to be corrected, but I changed from 23s to 32s, and never looked back, once I started commuting on my Specialized Diverge.
@Sam Murray -- They should both scale. As you slow your speed of travel and reduce the output power, the benefits of lower rolling resistance diminish the same as the benefits of reduced wind drag. But you're changing the subject -- my response is to the comment in the video about a 32 mm tyre being faster. And as far as I know a 32 mm tyre will NOT be faster than a 28 mm tyre because: (A) a higher drag coefficient of a 32 mm tyre will overcome the benefits of a reduction in rolling resistance for a 32 mm vs 28 mm tyre, and (B) no one makes a 32 mm tyre that is as good as the low-resistance 28 mm tyres that are currently on the market. So the low-resistance 28 mm tyres (like the Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II) will have a lower rolling resistance than the best 32 mm tyre currently on the market. I'm not saying "Don't use a 32 mm tyre." All I'm doing is trying to keep things factual. There are valid reasons to use a 32 mm tyre -- but higher speed is NOT one of them.
@D.Eldon: Power loss due to aero drag increases as the square of the speed. Does rolling resistance do the same, or is it linear or does it follow some other curve?
@Paul Flory: My understanding is that rolling resistance is very complicated because it is a system with infinite microscopic interactions and is difficult to model. So we must rely primarily on empirical data. I haven't seen any data for bicycle tyres versus velocity, but the data exists for automobile (car) tyres and they are not linear. As the velocity increases, the rolling resistance increases in a logarithmic fashion -- but the curves on a graph are gentle which makes me think the log function is partial. Therefore, I don't think that the air resistance and rolling resistance will change at exactly the same rate. But they do change and their effects diminish as the speed of travel decreases -- at least to a point. A different situation may arise if the velocity of travel were extremely slow or the bicycle were to stop. But that's not what we're talking about. It would be great if GCN did a program on this subject at one of the independent labs that test bicycle tyre rolling resistance (I'm aware of at least two). They can probably answer these kinds of questions fairly quickly. The problem for us cyclists, is that marketing and sales can pitch the benefit of a spec like low rolling resistance and deceive us into believing their product is better. But they don't put the spec in perspective so we can see its merit in the context of the overall picture. There is much more involved in going faster on a bike than rolling resistance and, for modern bicycles, rolling resistance is not even the most important factor. Even the bit about wider tyres having lower rolling resistance is deceptive. It needs context. "On what surface?" On an ultra-smooth indoor track, I guarantee you that the "wider tyre has lower rolling resistance" is patently false! But the biggest fallacy being made nowadays is the failure to consider the rubber compound and tyre construction. Only if you compare like tyres to like tyres can you make any meaningful generalizations about tyre width vs rolling resistance. And, since none of the big tyres (32 mm or bigger) are being made with the best "magic" rubber compounds (which are highly proprietary and secret), any advantage they could offer will be overwhelmed by their inferior rubber compound and inferior construction. To my mind, the best reason to switch to 32 mm tyres (or bigger) is for increased comfort when riding on a bumpy surface and for increased traction in specific situations like extremely uneven (cobblestones), soft (sand) or loose (gravel) surfaces. However, on mostly smooth pavement, a big tyre is not the best choice if your goal is to go as fast as you can. In this case, we need a tyre that best optimizes aerodynamics vs rolling resistance. My guestimate, based on the tyres and rims that are available today, is a width of 25 to 28 mm will probably be best. And yet we still see TT bikes with 23 mm tyres. This leaves me with the impression that the cycling industry is filled with half-truths and rarely do we see it come together to produce the "whole truth".
I have a Giant TCX cyclocross bike and I use it mainly for road riding and commuting - it has full-time mudguards/fenders and a rear rack I can install and remove at will. If you're fine with the added rubber weight, 32 mm road tires are a great idea. Coming from 28 mm tires, I find 32 mm is the point where tire VOLUME plays more of a factor over tire PRESSURE. Running both at 80 psi means the 32 mm tire slips in the wet, but you don't need that high of a pressure because it's already plenty grippy at 45-55 psi while being more comfortable to boot.
OMG about the front quick release skewer I've had that same exact issue twice swearing it was my BB. The first time I even went out and completely overhauled my bike with a new BB, regreased seat tube, new headset bearings. I spent all this time an money when all I needed was w40 on my skewer
The headwind/tailwind question was me. Silly question, never thought they'd actually answer it. lol...
But it goes beg the question - what is more beneficial when riding with a tailwind, sitting up more to make your back like a sail to get more push from the wind (which has been recommended on a GCN video) or getting low/aero so that you still get some push from the tailwind, but also cut some of the wind resistance as you go forward since you're out-riding the wind....? hmmm.... a GCN Does Science idea perhaps??
J T if you're going faster than the tailwind, get aero
Aero will always be better.
it's funny how the Scott used in Simon's video to show frame size,it now looks retro with all the changes to frame design aerodynamics and other recent technological advancements
I had the front QR issue last year but only found out after I had replaced the BB!
Thanks for answering the "unwritten rule" question! Quite interesting how it all started. Cheers!
Comment "day" if you see this
Was hoping you would have a chain keeper since it was missing from this week's GCN show.
I love the unwritten rules. They are what sets cycling apart and above (IMO) from other forms of racing. Being a gent on the bike is the way forward ............. unless of course you're trying to rip the legs off of your mates :)
#Torqueback I did a century ride once and there was a guy along with a Bose bluetooth speaker strapped to his panniers. A lot of my group overtook him on one of the big climbs on the route, and we were able to tell how close together we were by what part of "Stairway to Heaven" was playing as we passed him.
I know a few years back there was all sorts of concerns about Carbon breaking without any external influence (overtightening of bolts, impact etc). Just how has Carbon moved on in recent years? What sort of things can cause carbon parts to crack these days (braking on steep descents, potholes etc.). Just how robust are modern carbon bikes?
#Torqueback Can you recommend a training plan one can follow while working a Full-time job?
Prashant Pradhan get a coach for about 80 to 150 pounds a month
sure, use trainerroad, sufferfest or zwift. you have a ton of options and can choose how much time you are able to invest...
Commute back and forth to work. Depending on the hours you work, you can put together a really good training plan. Say you are riding 30k to work one way. Wake up in the morning have a glass of water a couple pieces of fruit and a date or two. Wrap a piece of banana and take it with you if you are prone to sweat a lot or if legs are prone to cramp. After you get to work eat a good breakfast. And there you have whats called a "fasted effort." Proven way to gain muscle power and endurance as well as training your body to burn fat.
Polarized training.
Trainerroad is the best option here!
Si, what did you do about the QL creaking? I'm having the same issue!
During a recent outing on my single speed, another cyclist asked the gear ratio of my bike and the gear inches. I told him the gear ratio, but said I had no idea what gear inches are. Can you explain gear inches and tell me why I should care about them please?
just talking about Creaks and noises..my bike was making a clicking noise on every revolution....checked everything...including fittung new BB.! thought..yeah thats sorted...bloody noise still there...and eventually looked at QR on back wheel..!! tightened it ever so slightly..and hey presto !! noise gone..so..if you have a creak..check front and rear QRs FIRST(in 30 yrs of cycling never had this before lol )..save yourself cash...Happy Cycling :0)
When you say you're really gonna try hard to be fast during the quick fire round and then on the first question take absolutely ages to answer it! Haha #torqueback
#Torqueback It seems that pure cyclists are sneering at or even disliking triathletes. Where does that "hatred" come from? We all love cycling (and some also swimming and running) so what's it about?
Just jealous of their aerodynamics.
Their socks.... too short. #yourSockGameIsWeak
Usually they aren't as knowledgeable about on road manners. For example pointing out potholes for the rest of the group behind you.
I've heard stories of people confused because it felt like it was raining on a sunny day when it turns out they were behind a triathlete pissing themselves.
jfkusa123 true
Dear GCN, would you be so kind to include a short segment on compatibility issues between different groupset between brands and within one brand itself? I've run a few Google searches already, but I haven't found a satisfying answer regarding the issues with braking power. Are there certain brands that deliver the same leverage in regards to braking? The travel length for each click when gearing is different, but if the brakes could be run satisfyingly it could allow me to run Ultegra/Dura Ace brakes with my Campag groupset. I hope I haven't asked a question that you've answered already ;)
#AskGCN #Torqueback
Rapid fire: Do you like the Kona Roadhouse?
Thanks for the interesting show, keep on 👍
Because of that video, I still mutter "knob" if someone doesn't "hi" back to me. Even if a wry, slight smile isn't returned, they still get a muttered "knob", 50 meters later.
#torqueback how do you tell the difference with all the different tyres? Putting aside the difference of clincher/tubular/tubeless, what features should you look out for when choosing one? For example, Vittoria and Continental have such a broad range it's difficult to tell what is what. Is it just weight and compound? If so what is recommended?
You can definitely go too wide on the road tyres! I had 37mm Vittoria Hyper Somethingorothers on that I've just swapped for 28mm GP4000's which are noticeably faster
dansheep13 - rolling resistance tests showed that the is only a relatively small penalty up to 32mm, but after that there is a noticeable penalty. That assumes you are using similar relatively good quality light flexible slick tyres across the range
I use 32mm gatorskins, not the lightest but good puncture resistance. Faster than my old narrow supposedly faster tyres when I am going through the potholes and off-road tracks
When the GC leaders jersey changes hands, how do teams get their version of the jersey? Do they all bring a just-in-case leaders-version of their team's jersey?
#torqueback Given how much effort is made to keep the TT bikes as light as possible (like removing the paint job which was mentioned in one of your videos), why are all of them equipped with a front mech? Seems like 11 gears would be more than enough to go through a flat(ish) course at any desired cadence.
hey guys, i think it will be awesome if those bottles inside the fireplace are arranged neatly, just because
Hi GCN do you have any advice on racing on a circuit and any tactics or strategies #torqueback
When replacing one tyre do you need to place in front or rear. In other words is it best to "cycle " your tyres
Russell Howard Just like a car, I think it is good to rotate (swap) your tyres so they wear out evenly. Normally the rear tyre should wear faster so watch the tread or indication marks and rotate tyres when there is a obvious difference between front and rear.
famous last words: "why not, go for it."
But I will say playing music can be a tricky topic in terms of biking. If you are on a quiet country lane, you may just want to enjoy the view, but it is a great time to listen to music because no one is around. If you are on a trail or in a city / town and wish to listen to music, while personally i would say go for it, others may not have the same opinion, which becomes increasingly likely in populated areas. If you do wish to play music however, try to avoid explicit music, as explicit music tends to make people more upset than non explicit music.
Hey Guys,
New bike question. Is there a bike that can do it all? I don't want to get dropped while doing a century with my mates but I'd also like the gearing and tyre clearance to go on dirt trails for bike packing. What do you suggest? Roubaix, Domane, Diverge, Terra?
In regard to music, I do have a speaker for my bike. When i ride with others I turn it off but when i ride alone (most of the time) I have my music playing. In my area of the US technically headphones are illegal. Unfortunately that is not enforced, even when people are driving their cars with headphones in! Most police don't even know its a law.
#Torqueback Can you have a 1/2 electronic and 1/2 mechanical bike. For example, di2 right shifter, di2 rear derailer, left mechanical shifter, and front mechanical derailer?
#torqueback Hey guys, how about giving each other a high 2? and maybe a reference to Lloydy as 'like a boss?' Yep, been watching for years now!
#torqueback road bikes with "relaxed" geometry will have top tubes that are angled down, but does that actually do anything if you raise your saddle to the same height as you would on a bike with "normal" geometry
I wondered what those little dents in my tyres were.
Haha, cheeky Matt the Chef. He just bought some flapjack and pretended he made them.
#TorqueBack. I cycle commute, turbo train 3-4 times a week and complete a weekend ride with 1 or 2 rest days in total. Even though my cardio is good my legs get very fatigued after a while. However, off the back of a 7 day holiday my legs feel great and very strong - yet my cardio has suffered (probably mineral water related).
Is there a simple way of identifying optimum rest without it hitting performance? I love the fresh legs feeling but no fan of blowing out of my backside.
To get more aero I decided to lower my Handlebar all the way down my Fork, i.e. move the spacers from 'below' to 'on-top' of the Handlebar. As a result, the handlebar is now 3 cm lower than before. The more aggressive position is still comfortable, howewer, after a long first testride I found out that the bike's handling has changed dramatically: What used to be a very agile but still increadible precise machine has tourned into a sluggish and spongy bike that is very hard to turn and does not corner well at all. Question: Does lowering the Handlebar have such a dramatic influence on the handling, especially on the cornering of the bike? Do I have to readjust/adapt my position on the bike to get the precise handling back that I enjoyed before lowering the handlebar?
To tighten the Top cap of the Handlebar I used a torque wrench, which however, was broken, so I totally overtightened the Handlebar. When I noticed that one of the spacers started to break I disassembled the Headset and retightened everythyng by hand. Did I maybe damage one of the bearings, when I tightened too firmly the first time? Does that maybe explayn the sluggish handling? How do I know if I have damaged something?
Please help, I'm desperate. #TorqueBack
Take the bike to a professional mechanic. There is a very real possiblity that you have damaged the headset or at a minimum, overtightened it again.
if you pick the bikes front wheel off the ground it should flop freely from side to side and feel smooth around the entire arc. There should be no play in the headset with the front brake applied and rocking on the bars. You don't use a torque wrench for the top cap. It is just tightened the minimum amount to remove bearing play. I would definitely get it checked by a mechanic. Or watch a you tube video and do it properly yourself.
Alex - when you lower the stem, yes you get more aero, but because the headtube and stem are at an angle, you're also moving the bars and stem further over the front tire which is most likely putting the weight of your upper body slightly in front wheel center line, as seen from the side view of the front tire. This will cause the bike to feel "sluggish". The stem length sweet spot for most frames is between 100 - 120 mm, though I understand climbing specialists often run longer stems. Make sure you have not compromised your saddle position, by rotating your pelvis too far forward as this could have other side effects on your comfort, especially over long rides. For an experiment buy an inexpensive aluminum stem, from some like Deda Elementi about 1 cm shorter and swap it out - pretty quick with common tools. This way you will get some of that handling back and saddle position back and keep your aero position.
Hey Rob, thank you for your suggestion. I found out that the Bearing was damaged due tu grit & Dirt and could not be cleaned properly. After replacing it, the bike behaves smooth again. The new aggressive position is indeed affectiong the handling a bit, but not in a bad way. I already got used to the Bike's dynamics and I'm really enjoying my bike!
Your welcome
I think the people selling nitrogen for tyres are just a little bit dodgy, air is 78 percent nitrogen and only 21 percent oxygen, the remaining 1% is other gases and water vapour. So you are practically riding on nitrogen filled tires even when you use just air. Then there is the rubbish argument that nitrogen prevents seepage... there is almost no difference between the molecular size of nitrogen and oxygen, so the difference in seepage between oxygen and nitrogen is insignificant. Then there is the furfy that water vapour in the tubed or tubeless tire causes more 'corrosion... how many of you have ever actually observed excessive corrosion in your alloy or carbon wheels from using air??? really guys, the impact on these metals is insignificant at best, and what about all the air that mysteriously isn't corroding the outside of the said wheels??? Anyone sucked in by this nitrogen marketing bull needs their head examined... www.racq.com.au/cars-and-driving/cars/owning-and-maintaining-a-car/car-maintenance/nitrogen-for-tyres
The process of getting pure nitrogen into tyres is pretty complicated. Probably the most advantageous property of a tyre filled purely by nitrogen is that it's perfectly homogeneous and you can precisely calculate how is temperature of the tyre going to affect the pressure. Also, the tyres will be slightly lighter. Extremely useful if you own a formula and are racing it.
Getting nitrogen filled tyres for your car pretty much means getting scammed. While the advantages are still there, there is no way you're going to take advantage of... those advantages.
Getting nitrogen filled tyre or your bike is nothing but placebo.
It's pure BS as far as bikes are concerned. The reason cars and motorcycles use it is that air is unstable at consistently high speeds - over 100 mph because it will expand throwing off braking and handling characteristics of the chassis and tires. This is simply not an issue on a bike unless you can pedal 100+ mph. Someone wants to sell you Nitrogen for your bike tires, ask them to please explain why and what benefit you will receive. Send that answer to me so can laugh my ass off.
#Torqueback After Tom Dumoulin won the Giro one friend of mine said that are times back now that TT-specialists will dominate Grand tours again. Has there been a period when riders specialized in time trialling really dominated the General classification of three week tours?
Nitrogen in tyres is only good when excessive heat could be experienced during operation. Si dogged answering this question.
You should do a video on hybrid bikes. I personally hate them, but there is a segment of people out there that make a concious decision to buy a bike that rides like crap on both the road and the trail. I'm sure they have a place in the world and there are people that love theirs, but to me they are just bikes for people that don't ride bikes.
#torqueback any tips on going to see a grand tour mountain stage? My friends and I are thinking of going to the Peyresourde finish in the tour this year, but we're a bit unsure about the best place to stay/get to the stage? (i.e. is it best to walk up, just so you don't have to leave your bike anywhere (risk of someone stealing it/carry a heavy lock up the climb))
Are there any pointers in getting an handlebar? I was thinking about getting a 400mm
Thoughts on altitude training masks ?
#torqueback cross chaining; I hear that small front cog and smallest rear cog and vice versa is a no no; but what degree of cross chaining is acceptable? In the giro there were tv shots of cyclist in the big ring on the front but high up the cassette on the rear.
#torqueback Please explain Thru axle lengths and diameters ! I am getting lost with all those sizes ! Why so many ? Which ones are the norm ? I don't even know which one my Giant Advanced Defy has ?!
#Torqueback Why can't Sprinters climb? I understand that it's to do with development of anaerobic vs aerobic systems. However I thought bigger muscles will help to put much more torque through the pedals on the climb and manage it to go faster on climbs. Is it to do with not being able to sustain long periods with a very high heart rate? Thank you if you include my question in the show.
Cycling needs the agreement that no one attacks Yellow during a mechanical so other teams' strategy does not include
Ram Yellow, force puncture. Etc.
No oven gloves, what about the flapjack coming out sliced
#torqueback So you mentioned about helium being too small molecularly for tire use. Does that include tubeless tires?
I suppose the music question was written far too wordy for the show when I originally asked it back in April...
Everyone knows that feeling when you want to ride your bike but you just simply don't have enought time. The question is after what period of time the fitness level start to drop significantly? Should I feel guilty if I don't ride for the whole week?
I'm about to start a 10 week teaching internship to finish my degree, where it's too far to practically cycle with my time constraints. It's possible I won't have any spare time to ride during this time (normaly commute 120klms a week, and love it). We'll feel guilty and fat together, ok Filip? :)
Filip Kapałczyński I injured my leg earlier this year and was off the bike for about seven weeks. As I couldn't move easily I did no other exercise either. It has taken me ages to get back into, partly because I was busy, partly because I just couldn't ride as are as I could before and it wasn't as fun.
Pretty sure there's a video on recovering from injury, which might cover your question, too.
Yea, yea. It's not that I have to ride or should ride. I really want to ride.
Don't scare me Sam. I haven't been fat my whole life :(
JMS yea I've heard about long term break side effects. It's horrible. But I wonder about short break fitness lost, like a week. Anyway thanks for info, will definitely cheack the video :)
#TorqueBack - Can you explain Mamils to an American? I am slightly older than Matt, wear lycra but don't consider myself to be a Mamil since I have been cycling for a very long time.
Why is it called the criterium du dauphine if it is a stage race?
Nitrogen in tires is snake oil in any vehicle, and would be doubly-so in bicycles.
My dad always insisted that you store your bike in the little ring and the smallest gear so that the derailleur springs have the least amount of tension in them. Does that actually make a difference?
Stan Normile interesting.. I'm no expert but that would cross the chain and probably reduce its life. I always leave my chain in the smallest chain ring and the 3rd smallest cog.
Amateur Triathletes are not allowed to draft and because of their tri-bars they cannot ride in groups, which is where most club riding happens.
I'm a pro-guide in Mallorca with Mallorca Cycling Tours and took out a group of triathletes on hire bikes from ProCycleHire in Port Pollensa. Without tri-bars I managed to get them riding as a group and eventually to do through-and-off...and they loved it...
It's not the triathletes who are to blame...
I think that even if the pro teams can afford or are given the lightest bikes to ride and then they break often it won't be good for
1. the riders falling more often
2. races when they need the bike
and
3. The bike brand will not look dependable if racers are constantly needing a new $10,000 bike because it just broke. It would not make a regular consumer confident in the bike they are buying.
?I have matt finish on my frame. there is an option to make it glossy at home
#askgcn when I put my front wheel in and tighten the quick release to the correct tension, the wheel wobbles left to right slightly in the forks but not enough to touch either brake pad when the brake calipers are fully closed. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks GCN
Check the bolts that are holding the bearings in the hub. That can come loose sometimes
Szaman Szymon thank you sir I will try that now
Worn wheel bearings?
Tom Dumoulin, Giro Legend!
Re "Helium molecules". Good chem fact about He, but should be "atoms" not molecules. (from a cycling-obsessed chemistry lecturer)
Martin Hollamby Sorry Martin, told you I was at my chemistry limit!
Simon Richardson no worries!
#TorqueBack. Not sure if torqueback is the right hashtag but have you considered a video to determine the most useful metric to use between power, heart rate, cadance and feel? Today I went up a local hill (Nunburnholme Hill, 1.4KM, 8%av) 3 times, each time removing one of the removable metrics. Difference between was quite dramatic. I thought Lasty would enjoy being sent up a local hill of yours repeatedly...for science.
#Torqueback what is the difference in choosing between between 140mm and 160mm brake rotors? Why do some bikes have both?
#torqueback Coming from running, I started cycling two months ago. Me: 1,84m(~6") 84kg, 38yo. I did my first "tiny" Col this weekend 12km 800mD+ at 7% up to 2000m altitude. It was a 1h20min of torture, my HR was at 170bpm on average, out of breath. How can I _SERIOUSLY_ improve my climbing, because I really felt like an idiot being in that much of pain. I live near the Mont Ventoux, and I want to climb that sucker properly !
I have a bottle cage zip tied behind/under my TT bike saddle for my triathlons (because aero). Would it be frowned upon to do the same for my road bike and use an empty bottle to hold extra food, tools and other things that wouldn't all fit into a saddlebag for those longer training rides? #torqueback
#torqueback Are there pros who listen to music during their races?
I am pretty sure i saw Thibaut Pinot wearing beats earphones during Giro D Italia.
I'm trying to buy a new bike but it's so hard to know what to get for cheap.
#Torqueback which one should i upgrade first on my roadbike? is it my cycling shoes (currently using mtb shoes and pedals) or my wheelset (currently using alloy clinchers)? fyi i'm a racer, not a casual commuter. thanks
#torqueback Hi GCN, I want to change my rims with wider ones, what would you choose: clinchers or tubular glued using tape?
#Torqueback Any tips on doing long distances on a turbo (due to my broken wrist)
#torqueback in track racing, are there regulations about the size of your cog and chainring?
#Torqueback One of my cycling friends has problems with giving it everything everytime because he 'knows' (read: Thinks) he would always do worse than me (no matter how hard he's trying), at least that's how it seems to him because he's never won a sprint against me. How do you change your mindset so you are doing the best you can?
#Torqueback. does high and low air pressure have much effect on your training rides.if so how much and if you train in predominant high pressure does it make you faster if you race in low pressure?
#Torqueback Do you have any tips on getting rid of tiny scratches on a matte black finished frame? I really love the matte black finish but after a year of heavy duty riding, my frame is just covered with tiny scratches and marks. Is there any way to erase them without destroying the finish?
Hi gcn! The only time I can ride my bike is early in the morning because of work and family, so I tend to do it before breakfast. The odd time I do get to ride in the afternoon I feel so much stronger and tend to go faster. Is it all down to the food I have eaten during the day? If it is without getting up ridiculously early to eat what else can I do?
2 minute porridge!
#torqueback Up til now I've only used, and still use, a cheep pair of bib shorts with my stock Specialized saddle. But recently I've completely changed my diet, training schedule, and started riding 60+ miles a week and my question is whether it is more beneficial (bum comfort wise) to upgrade my bib shorts or my saddle to a high end version? thanks and as always love the show.
oh and I have to say, if it wasn't for GCN and all your help videos I probably would have never taken my road riding to the next level. By next year I'm hoping to be fit enough to do some actual races
Since breaking in my Brooks B17, I no longer need cycling shorts. Unless you're fixated on weight, they're absolutely amazing.
Do the unwritten rules apply if the race leader stops for an Alpe di Poti?
#Torqueback Hello guys, I have a problem to keep up with my riding group on flats. I have about 60 kg, so I can kick their ω, while they weight more than 20 kilos more and when they push the tempo, I always get dropped. I tried some "power" sessions, but my lack of power is still too significants. Any tips? Thanks!
#torqueback i rode with some new people this weekend. they weren't very good at keeping a steady pace, eg., hitting the brakes and the bottom of a descent or stopping pedaling at the start of an ascent. As a result, I frequently overlapped the rear wheel of the person in front of me, for which I was chided by one of the riders. Who was being rude - them, me or both?
Not that I think you did this purposefully, but sounds like you should have dialed it back a notch, especially because it's a new group and you don't want to rub anyone the wrong way. More experienced riders may not have an issue with occasional overlap, properly gearing for hills, carrying momentum etc, but it sounds like you were with a group that wasn't quite at that level. Sometimes being the more experienced rider means the understandign the level of those around you and adjusting accordingly.
Hey - thanks for answering!
#Torqueback I am quite tentative on descents. What is the best way I can improve my descending?
#torqueback Some of my mates joke that they could be pro if they had a better bike, but how much of an improvement does a pro bike make vs a basic one? On flats and on a climb?
How does elevation gain actually work? - Would a 100 km with 4000 meters of elevation gain effectively be "longer" than a 100 km with 400 meters of elevation?
#torqueback #askgcn
Elevation gain means gravitational potential energy, which translates into additional physical work you must exert to overcome said elevation (apart from the work to overcome rolling and wind resistance). For fixed power output, Time = Work/Power, so the higher the work the longer the time, or equivalently, the higher the elevation gain, the longer the time.
I think traditionally the unwritten rules were the ones it wasn't socially okay to break if you could avoid getting caught...
#Torqueback My bike derailleur keeps on getting mis aligned. How would i fix this without spending 25$+ at the shop?
Riding in a large event when folks are playing music out loud is really weird and irritating...
#Torqueback hi guys, I'm looking to buy a bike for my wife, she has recently started triathlon and road cycling, and loving it. We have £600 budget should I concentrate on a nice frame and wheels, e.g a brand like orbea. Or concentrate more so on the components, e.g Shimano Ultegras, or sram? thanks guys.
#Torqueback my Garmin watch is telling me to walk more on my rest day but will this help recovery?
#torqueback #gcn hey guys quick question... non-poopo related! What's the most efficient way of getting your water-bottle from ? Seat tube or down tube or any other tube?? Thx uuu!!! Jo
how does the fit on a road bike related to the fit on a TT bike? Are the "reach" and "stack" values still appropriate or different for the different position on each bike? #askGCN
any comments on the fsa power box powermeter?#torqueback
#Torqueback#AskGCN. Hey gcn could you tell us how to become a pro and and to get sponsored in your local area
Hi guys, cycling in thailand at 42° (real feel 49!), wondering: How does physical toll differ, cycling in hot weather (40°+) vs cool (20°) ? (ie 100km in heat is equivalent to ? Km in cool temps)? We did 118km yesterday and it felt like several thousand #torqueback #askgcn. Thanks
#torqueback what would you prefer, low end aluminium frame with a top of the range groupset, or a top of the range carbon frame and entry level groupset?
Sunshine'n'Rainbows my alu frameset weighs 1.8kg. How is a carbon frame gonna save me kilos??
Given the choice, is it better to have a tailwind on the climb / headwind on the descent? or to go the other way & have the headwind on the climb / tailwind on the descent? or does it make no difference? #torqueback #askgcn #mybrainhurts
#torqueback Is there really any difference between the proprietary brake pads for different carbon wheels? Why would a carbon specific pad damage a carbon wheel?
#Torqueback #AskGCN I hit a pothole while decending and put a healthy bend in my aluminum wheel. Should I bother trying to fix it, or throw it in the bin?
#torqueback how do you take enough water with you on long rides? Do you ride around like a domestique with a whole load of bidons? If I drink what I'm supposed to I would run out of water halfway. I could buy some 750ml Camelbak bidons but that only gives me 200ml more than what I currently have.
Organised rides usually have refill points. If I go for a long ride I do either of 2 things: I make sure I pass a place like a bar or restaurant where I can refill, or I take backpack along with extra bidons or in extreme cases a camelback 3L bag (warning; heavy..you want to empty that first).
#TorqueBack #ASKGCN Do bike frames fit different body types better than others? should body type (physical characteristics and current flexibility) dictate the type of frame someone gets?
Regarding the 32 mm wide tyre, yes, it can provide a softer ride because it won't need as much pressure. But no, it probably will not be faster -- even though it may have less rolling resistance. Whenever we talk about going faster, we need to step back and look at the whole picture because there are multiple factors involved. And the biggest impediment -- by far!!! -- to going faster on a bicycle is not rolling resistance. It is the AIR RESISTANCE!!! That big 32 mm tyre may have a lower rolling resistance (if it's designed to have a low rolling resistance -- size does not guarantee greater or lesser rolling resistance) but it most definitely will be less aerodynamic than a 28 mm road tyre and the increased air resistance will most likely be larger than the typically small decrease in rolling resistance. This would be true even if someone made an aero wheel for a 32 mm tyre (I don't think anyone does).
The rolling resistance of a tyre depends on more than its patch size on the road. It also depends on the rubber compound, sidewall flexibility and methods of construction. We need to remember that comparisons of tyre rolling resistance cannot be made without actually measuring them because the rubber compounds and construction techniques vary so much from one tyre manufacturer to another and from one model tyre to another. I don't believe that any of the fastest road tyres in the world are available in a 32 mm width. For example, the Continental Grand Prix 4000 S II has consistently measured to have one of the lowest rolling resistances for a road tyre (it's been in the top 10 for years). The largest width it is available in is 28 mm. I challenge you to find a 32 mm road tyre that has a lower rolling resistance than the 28 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II. As far as I know, no one is making a 32 mm tyre with the same kind of low-rolling-resistance rubber compounds and construction techniques. If someone did, it would probably have a lower rolling resistance -- but no does (as far as I know). So it's a moot point. A 32 mm tyre may, in theory, be capable of a lower rolling resistance than a 28 mm tyre but no one makes one that does.
How can we use tyre size to make decisions about rolling resistance? Answer: Only within the same tyre model. If we compare the 23, 25 and 28 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II, we can safely assume that the 28 mm model has the lowest rolling resistance in the line. But we cannot assume that 25 mm Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II has a higher rolling resistance than a 28 mm Conti Gatorskin (in fact, the opposite is true). Why? Because the blend of rubber and the construction technique of the Gatorskin increase its rolling resistance. This is the danger when comparing different model tyres. The only valid way to make these comparisons is to look at actual rolling resistance data gathered using a standardized measurement.
Depends on the speed and terrain for that air resistance, surely mate? A commuter who's averaging 18k/h would be better off with a 32mm tyre, and my untested and completely youtube-comment-section-science assumption would be they need less watts to maintain that speed, and would be more comfortable. Happy to be corrected, but I changed from 23s to 32s, and never looked back, once I started commuting on my Specialized Diverge.
@Sam Murray -- They should both scale. As you slow your speed of travel and reduce the output power, the benefits of lower rolling resistance diminish the same as the benefits of reduced wind drag. But you're changing the subject -- my response is to the comment in the video about a 32 mm tyre being faster. And as far as I know a 32 mm tyre will NOT be faster than a 28 mm tyre because: (A) a higher drag coefficient of a 32 mm tyre will overcome the benefits of a reduction in rolling resistance for a 32 mm vs 28 mm tyre, and (B) no one makes a 32 mm tyre that is as good as the low-resistance 28 mm tyres that are currently on the market. So the low-resistance 28 mm tyres (like the Conti Grand Prix 4000 S II) will have a lower rolling resistance than the best 32 mm tyre currently on the market.
I'm not saying "Don't use a 32 mm tyre." All I'm doing is trying to keep things factual. There are valid reasons to use a 32 mm tyre -- but higher speed is NOT one of them.
@D.Eldon: Power loss due to aero drag increases as the square of the speed. Does rolling resistance do the same, or is it linear or does it follow some other curve?
@Paul Flory: My understanding is that rolling resistance is very complicated because it is a system with infinite microscopic interactions and is difficult to model. So we must rely primarily on empirical data. I haven't seen any data for bicycle tyres versus velocity, but the data exists for automobile (car) tyres and they are not linear. As the velocity increases, the rolling resistance increases in a logarithmic fashion -- but the curves on a graph are gentle which makes me think the log function is partial. Therefore, I don't think that the air resistance and rolling resistance will change at exactly the same rate. But they do change and their effects diminish as the speed of travel decreases -- at least to a point. A different situation may arise if the velocity of travel were extremely slow or the bicycle were to stop. But that's not what we're talking about.
It would be great if GCN did a program on this subject at one of the independent labs that test bicycle tyre rolling resistance (I'm aware of at least two). They can probably answer these kinds of questions fairly quickly.
The problem for us cyclists, is that marketing and sales can pitch the benefit of a spec like low rolling resistance and deceive us into believing their product is better. But they don't put the spec in perspective so we can see its merit in the context of the overall picture. There is much more involved in going faster on a bike than rolling resistance and, for modern bicycles, rolling resistance is not even the most important factor.
Even the bit about wider tyres having lower rolling resistance is deceptive. It needs context. "On what surface?" On an ultra-smooth indoor track, I guarantee you that the "wider tyre has lower rolling resistance" is patently false! But the biggest fallacy being made nowadays is the failure to consider the rubber compound and tyre construction. Only if you compare like tyres to like tyres can you make any meaningful generalizations about tyre width vs rolling resistance. And, since none of the big tyres (32 mm or bigger) are being made with the best "magic" rubber compounds (which are highly proprietary and secret), any advantage they could offer will be overwhelmed by their inferior rubber compound and inferior construction.
To my mind, the best reason to switch to 32 mm tyres (or bigger) is for increased comfort when riding on a bumpy surface and for increased traction in specific situations like extremely uneven (cobblestones), soft (sand) or loose (gravel) surfaces. However, on mostly smooth pavement, a big tyre is not the best choice if your goal is to go as fast as you can. In this case, we need a tyre that best optimizes aerodynamics vs rolling resistance. My guestimate, based on the tyres and rims that are available today, is a width of 25 to 28 mm will probably be best. And yet we still see TT bikes with 23 mm tyres.
This leaves me with the impression that the cycling industry is filled with half-truths and rarely do we see it come together to produce the "whole truth".
#Torqueback Is it good to hang my bike from the front wheel (aluminium)? Is it going to ruin my wheel or headset bearing?