What do you think of this bike?

best spinning bikes 2013 image

OOOPPPSS!!

I mainly ride on country roads, but I do occationally like to ride off road as well. I want to be able to take this bike abroad on really long tours but I've also been thinking about getting into triathlons, do you think this bike would be suitable for all of this? I can't really afford multiple bikes at the moment so I really need something that's going to 'all purpose.' of not does anyone have any other suggestions?
http://m.evanscycles.com/products/roux/conquest-2300-2013-cyclocross-bike-ec051745

Answer
Many cyclocroos bikes are not suitable at all for touring. Although they are able to use wider tires like a touring bike, they don't have the same wide range gearing and they sometimes don't have mounting points for racks that touring bikes do. Added to that the frame of a cyclocross bike may not have long chainstays and a stiff enough frame for loaded touring. If you want an all purpose bike, a real touring bike can be ridden off road just as easily as a 'cross bike since it can handle the needed wider tires. As for triathlons, neither a cyclocross nor a touring bike would be competitive for that sort of event. Neither bike has high enough overall gearing for high road speeds so you would spin out on the fastest sections on the road. You could do a triathlon on either sort of bike without any problem, you just wouldn't be likely to finish in a high position. My choice for a do anything bike would be a touring bike, not a cyclocross bike

Kawasaki Ninja 2013 ?

Hackerspy

Any news bout this new serie of bikes???

Answer
ZX 10r is 11K to 16K- 250 is twice the emblem at 5K and the 650 is about 6500 bucks. each has slightly more horses (for example the 1100 has 20 more hp)

The main selling point is their breakthrough/1000 dollar option- traction control.

This is the same type of anti wheel spin that my Cadillac has. Thus allowing me to be first off the line- every time.

Smiles

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My spinning bike makes a loud clicking sound when I pedal it. How do I fix this -- or who can I get to fix it?

best spin bike pedals image

zorzo z

Three months ago I bought a Schwinn Spinner Pro spinning bike on Craiglist. I enjoyed it for about 2 months before it started making very loud clicking sounds when I pedal it.

Does anyone know what the problem could be -- and how I can fix it?

If not, who would be able to fix it? Since I bought it used, I don't have any repair or service information. (I live in the Chicago area now.)

Answer
Any bike shop should be able to fix it for you. The other guy that posted does not realize this is an exercise bike and not a normal bike so it doesn't have derailleurs . If i had to guess id say the problem is with the crank.

Get a Grip Cycles
4359 W. Irving Park Road
Chicago, IL
773-427-4747
GetAGripCycles.com


Johnny sprockets
3001 N.Broadway
Chicago, IL 60657
773-244-1079

1052 W. Bryn Mawr
Chicago, IL 60660
773-293-1697

johnnysprockets.com


There are a couple of good shops for you to go to in chicago.

How can I match beats per minute of music to indoor cycyling cadence?

funinsun

(The spin bikes at my gym have cadence displays on them). If my song is 120 bpm should my cadence also be 120?

Also, how do I determine my running cadence? Do I count strides in a minute?

Answer
Use a watch with a second hand you want to count your knee coming up 12-15 times in ten seconds. Match your running to your fitness level cadence is not important in running. Run hard enough that you do not get out of breath. The cadence in cycling is so you don't pedal to hard and it's more efficient.

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What is a good starter road bike for a first triatholon?

best spin cycle bike image

Q. Im training for my first triatholon and am looking for a good road bike for the riding portion. I have been training on a stationary bike at the gym and am needing to get some miles done on a road bike. Ive looked at some local, Houston Tx, bike shops and the prices are well over what I want to spend on a bike. Any suggestions on brands and dealers would be great.

Answer
Ebay! Start with bikes 4 years and older, aluminum, at least 10 speeds. Riding in a Tri is a lot like riding a century. Bike fit and comfort are more important than saving weight. If your position and pedal stroke are comfortable to you, chances are they're more efficient as well.

Then, invest in a set of Tri Aero Bars.. around 60 bucks, and practice with them. More than you think you should! If you wait till the day of your triathlon, you'll dump, wipe, face plant, or hurt someone else the first time you get the wobbles. Make sure you're riding intervals and sprints, not just long distance, low effort spins on an exercise bike.

Anything by one of the larger cycle manufacturers will suit you fine as long as you're comfortable with the bike, it has a big gear you can spin for an hour at high speed, and you rack up the seat time in prep for race day. Good Luck!

And to the Chris S below me.. I agree seem like they are a purely optional expediture, but I have found that they come in very handy when resting your arms and shoulders before or after a long swim. My Veloton group actually restricts their use in TT due to 2 or 3 guys riding aero bars in a paceline last year. A direct result of poor planning on the part of the organizers, but needless to say, that particular group ended up with a broken clavicle, a broken collarbone, three green-stick arm fractures, and yards of road rash!

Also, Have to ditto the shoes and pedals. Most of all though, be comfortable. Dont buy new gear the day before your Tri. If you havent trained in or on it, chances are it will just hurt you.

What is the difference between a Spinercise class and a Spin & Tone class?

Michelle E

What is the difference between a Spinercise class and a Spin & Tone class?
Trying to figure out which one I should take. Would like to get rid of the jiggles :), especially my stomach.

Answer
I think they're very similar. I do the Spin & Tone.

Spinning, or studio cycling, is an excellent exercise to strengthen your heart and tone your legs. Classes consist of anywhere from a half dozen to 20 participants perched atop special stationary bikes. The instructor then takes the class on a "ride" that includes sprints, hill climbs, and other fun exercises like intervals and circuits. Classes are usually 45 to 50 minutes long and are set to music. Aside from the group energy, one of the things that makes spin classes so much better than regular stationary cycling is the bikes themselves. Spinning bikes are equipped with a weighted flywheel in the front that picks up speed as you pedal, and the seats and handlebars are adjustable, so you feel like you're riding on a real bike. There's a knob below the handlebars that allows you to adjust the tension, making pedaling easier or harder, as you ride down flat roads, up mountain sides, and down hills.

Spinning is very popular, especially among people who don't care for traditional exercise classes. There are no complicated dance moves to follow, and since you control your bike's tension, you can stay within a comfortable exercise zone for your fitness level, while still feeling like you're "keeping up" with the class. Unlike actual cycling, there are no worries about lagging behind the pack. Everyone finishes together. And everyone gets a great workout. Spinning scorches about 7.2 to 13.6 calories per minute, or about 500 calories per class. All that pedaling is also a great leg shaper, as it tones your glutes, thighs, and calves.

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Which should I buy, elliptical trainer/exercise bike?

livestrong spin bike heart rate monitor image

Marii

I have the option of buying a elliptical trainer or a exercise bike. I want to lose fat and burn more calories, which should I get? Please don't tell me to get a jump rope or go running, I don't have the option to as I get home late at night and would like the exercise in the comfort of my home :)

Answer
When you say exercise bike, does that include Spinning bikes? Given the choice between an elliptical trainer and a Spinning bike, I would pick the bike. Elliptical trainers don't challenge your fitness levels like Spinning bikes. I've taken Spinning classes and they were brutal for those out of shape participants like me. Especially, hill climbs. But, when your heart rate shows improvement, you will feel it all over. With the right diet, you will be energized.

Loosing fat and burning more calories will come as a result of any fitness regiment, but to increase the cardio takes exercise like Spinning, swimming, and of course running. Get yourself a Spinning bike; a participation DVD with music; a heart monitor (important); water bottles; and good padded bike shorts. If you've never been on a Spinning bike, be prepared to find out just how many muscles you have on your backside and in between the cheeks. You will hurt for about two weeks. Then, it goes away. But, you can do Spinning sessions with a DVD at home in front of a TV. Roughly, an hour each time with stretching; warm-up; Spinning; slow down; and cool down.

Something else to consider...the Body For LIfe Program. Everyone I know who's tried it has shown great results after 12 weeks. It's a small commitment, but one worth the effort.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/29608-buy-indoor-spinning-bike/

http://bodyforlife.com/

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swimsuit season!!!?

spin bike shoes reviews image

Q. ok, if i jump rope for 5 minutes a day, each healthy ----- no junk food. and have gym class every other day, FOR 5 MONTHS, will i be ready for swimsuit season....i have a belly (NOT HUGE) but annoying that i need to get rid of, and my thighs need toning......do you think i'll be ready if i do this?
jump roping also works out your whole body too.....my gym class is 90 minutes.

Answer
I agree with the poster who said "Crunches don't get rid of belly fat, they get stronger abs. You will need to do cardio if you want to lose weight."

First you don't need to lose weight to slim down. What you want to do is reshape your body so that you have more muscles and less belly fat. It's is not a question of losing weight but replacing the fat on your middle with muscles else where on your body.

You can't choose where fat will be reduced. You can't target fat. You can choose which muscles to build. Targeting which muscles you build is very easy, you just use them !!

To lose weight you need to build up your bodies need to burn energy every day. You need to increase your metabolic rate.

The best way to do that is to build your muscles and the most important muscles are your lungs and your heart muscle.
This is why people talk about doing cardio workouts. Workouts that exercise the heart and lungs for a period of time. That means running, spinning, biking etc.

You should start doing cardio it in short blocks of 5 minutes with a couple of minutes to recover and then another 5, recover, another 5 and so on.

Try to build up to the point where you are doing 45 to an hour. Then as you get fitter and recover faster, cut back on the recovery breaks.

5 minutes of high intensity jump rope is the wrong start. You can still do it, but you need to work on lower intensity and longer duration: Endurance.

To help you get the intensity and duration better balanced you may want to invest in a heart rate monitor, (and good running shoes). Get one with programmable zones and upper and lower alarms.

In the first few months rate your progress by your increased endurance.

Seek the advice and help of a school coach or personal trainer from a gym. Get them to help build you a personal exercise plan, and then review and expand it every month based on your progress.

Try finding the various running clubs in your town. Most offer free advice and free or very low cost training.

You already know what to do with food. Eat regularly at least three times a day. Eat lots of green and leafy stuff, (not lettuce) and lots of other veg and fruits.

Cut back on all junk food, fried food. No sodas or so called energy drinks like red bull. You can use a little gator-aid for workouts that last more than 40 minutes. (Both during and after.)

Try to eat some protein after long hard workouts, preferably within 30 minutes.

Add pliaties to help strengthen your core.

Keep a log of your workouts and your progress.

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How do you maintain a bike?

best fitness spin bike parts image

smiley

I'm very new to cycling and plan on getting a fuji absolute 3.0 for fun and fitness. I will most likely be using the bike 4-5 times a week mainly on roads. How often do I get a tune-up? How do I clean it? (I heard some parts get bad if water gets on it). If anyone recommends any specific items I should get, like a good chain lubricant, that would be great. Thanks!

Answer
If I could give Julian's answer 10 thumbs-down, I would! lol. Please don't follow that advice. At all.

Bike maintenance can be a simple thing, but of course bike mechanics is a complex thing...and they go together a little bit. The basics are to try and keep your bike dry...if it gets wet, just dry it off as soon as you can and you might want to wipe it off with a damp sponge or towel. Don't use a hose or a car wash/pressure nozzle...that can force water into places you don't want it to go, and can totally ruin bearings causing them to rust or fail. If you want to use waxes or polishes, have at it, but that's something I've never felt the need to do and today's bike paints/coatings are really durable.

Your biggest maintenance area will be cleaning and lubing the chain. Use a good quality bike lube. If you're in a wet and rainy area, the "wet" lubes will last longer and protect better, but they're oily and dirty and cleaning your chain will be necessary more often. "Dry" lubes are the favorite choice...resistant to picking up sand, last a long time, and with some you can just reapply lube without needing to clean the chain so frequently. There's no way to tell you how often to lube the chain, but before it gets dry and squeaky...or after it gets wet so it doesn't rust. My favorite by far is the ProLink Pro Gold lube, but there are several good ones available. Ask your bike shop and see what the locals prefer...sometimes your local environment dictates what's best. Don't balk at the higher price of bike lubes compared to other stuff. If you use it properly and don't waste it, it's not that expensive and it does the job the best.

Other than that, most "tune-ups" will be very infrequent. If your gears and brakes and all the other bolts and bits are set up properly, then they'll often go a long time without needing anything at all. The cables will need to be replaced occasionally (every year or two, give or take, depending on how much you use them). When you first get your bike, it's more than likely that the cable adjustments will need some attention once or twice during the first 100 miles or so...that's normal, but after that they should be mostly attention-free. At some point you'll start wearing out the chain and gear teeth, but that will take a long time.

Other parts of maintenance get more complex and you can either learn to do them and buy some tools, or have a shop take care of it for you....things like changing the grease in the wheel bearings and/or headseat bearings, adjusting those same bearings, replacing brake pads and/or adjusting them as they wear. Your wheels should spin nice and smooth, without wobbling. Hopefully your new bike comes that way. lol. If that changes over time, have the bike shop "true" them for a few bucks.

Best new bike accessories include: helmet, bike pump, spare inner tube, patch kit, and chain lube.

How to get rid of a beer belly?

llesmeirio

I have a beer belly - it's actually probably more like a chocolate belly.

Can someone give me simple tips on how to get rid of it and be fit for a bikini by the summer?

Answer
I lost 90 pounds from Feb. 2006-November 2006 and have kept it off. I am still working on toning up my muscles and probably will be for the rest of my life.

I don't know how much you have to lose, but what it takes is commitment from you to yourself to eat more healthy. I do not recommend extremely low carb diets, but limit your carbs to healthy ones: only 5 small (small!!!) servings a day, and whole grain EVERY time. Look for the highest fiber cereals, crunchiest breads, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, etc. 2 servings of fruit, 2 servings of SKIM milk (a serving is a cup...yes, you need to measure), as many veggies as you want. Limit protein to 2-3 3oz servings a day (about the size of a deck of cards). You will be amazed at how GOOD you feel when you eat healthy. Don't look at it as self-denial. You are treating your body with kindness and making it feel wonderful.

The other part is exercise. I started out only being able to handle 20 minutes on a recumbent (leaning back) bike. Then, I added an eliptical trainer. After I'd lost 40 pounds, I started in on spin class, which is now my favorite cardio. I am in my late 40s and have issues with my knees, so I can't do a lot of jumping and spinning around, so that leaves out most aerobics classes and step. But if you don't have those issues, you can try those. Or walk! Or ride your bike outside. Do cardio at least 3 times a week for AT LEAST 30 minutes at a time (raise your heart rate to 70 per cent of its maximum for 30 minutes). It helps to interval train; incorporate a burst of speed into your workout and then recover. Don't do this till you're more fit, however. Start out slowly and then as you feel stronger, add more challenges to your workout. I also had a personal trainer show me (in just 1 session) how to work out with weights and establish a strength training routine. NOw I go to a strength training/toning class, but occasionally use the weight machines.

There was an article in our local paper (Ogden Standard Examiner, April 22, Body Wise section) on how doing just ab work doesn't flatten your abs. You need to strengthen all the surrounding muscles as well, or your situps/crunches do absolutely no good. One of the fitness trainers at the club I go to does "hip hop" (standing up) abs. This incorporates our backs, our obliques (side) and our abs. Crunches alone are not enough. Work out your entire core, and you'll see results. I know I have! When I sit, my tummy no longer "sits" on my legs! LOL!!!

I do cardio 3 x a week (most weeks) and weight training 3 x a week.

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Whats the best way to walk a bicycle long distances?

what is the best spinning bike on the market image

Q. if i simply cannot peddle it uphill due to the heavy load and have to walk it, what are the best methods? Is there something on the market to make it easier?

Answer
You're trying to "peddle" your bicycle? You trying to sell it? To "peddle" is to sell good or wares - as a door-to-door salesperson will sell vacuum cleaners or magazine subscriptions. You "pedal" a bicycle.

Either you have a bike without enough gears or you're not "spinning" the pedals in a gear that's easy to use with moderate pedal pressure fast enough. In plain English...drop that sucker into low gear & pedal as fast as you can. The faster you can "spin" the pedals - the easier it becomes. Make sure your saddle (seat) is at the proper height. Links below...

How can I make some extra money on the side?

Q. I am going into grade 10, which I have been told is the hardest grade in highschool, so a job would be too much, since I also take guitar lessons. I am one of those people who likes to go places, which requires money. Please do not suggest online money making opportunities because I dont want to waste my time on those. All suggestions are appreciated. I am not looking to get rich, just something on the side so I am not completely broke.

Answer
There are many ways of earning extra money. In some cases, people lose their jobs and it becomes survival money. All of the ideas that follow offer potentially good opportunities to earn some extra cash.

Volunteering
Work at a place that might have job opportunities for you e.g. a seniors center, hospital, golf course, etc. Meet a lot of people and network. They know people who know people and so on. The volunteering can also be personally enriching. Make suggestions for jobs you see need doing e.g. teaching the elderly how to use a computer.

Garage sales
Recycling and reusing are not dirty words! There is a ton of stuff out on garbage night that could be picked up that is still useful. If cleaned up or slightly repaired it is potentially worth lots of money e.g. picture frames, small furniture, sports equipment, cutlery and dinnerware, glass & pottery, jewelry, books, computer parts, etc. Once you get good at it and know prices, start going to garage sales and buy stuff that can be resold at a higher price at your own regular garage sales or at used goods shops.

Resell to Dealers
Flea market sellers, antique dealers, and consignment stores are only a few of the people who survive on the sale of used goods.

- TV's that people throw out can be worth about $10-$20 each to repair people who are always on the lookout.
- bikes can be sold to bike repair people and/or used sports equipment dealers. The going rate is anywhere from $10 and up. If they can be fixed at home, they can sell privately. Older "antique" bikes are often highly desirable. Ads in the paper and Buy & Sell type magazines should clear them out quickly for you.
- dehumidifiers and humidifiers can be sold to businesses that repair and sell them. If somebody is handy, it is usually easy to repair many dehumidifiers as the only thing wrong with many of them is a seized motor. A little oil and a few spins and it often works again, no problem. In the summer they sell for about $50-$60 if in good working condition.

Think of all the university student rooms and apartments that need a humidifier in the winter.

Sports Equipment
There is a lot of money in sports equipment. Ice skates, roller blades, snowboards, skateboards, etc. Get familiar with what used goods stores want and buy up newer models at yard/garage sales, estate sales, church rummage sales, etc. Sell them to "Play It Again Sports" stores. It is possible to find them all year for about $2-$10 and you can get $15-$25 or more for them at the stores. It is very easy to build up credits and then buy your own new sports equipment at minimum cost. In many cases, it is also possible to get cash for the equipment. Make sure there are no breaks or missing parts. It has to be flawless for safety reasons.

Door-to-door Selling
Find a product that could easily be sold door to door e.g. economy size boxes of saran wrap, garbage bags, deodorizers, etc. Something small and useful that everybody uses all the time. A novelty toy sold to kids in tourist districts is good too. Be alert and cautious when doing this!

Used Paperbacks and Novels
Check with used book dealers first to see how much they pay for them - usually from 25 cents and up. Also find out which books they find most desirable. Go to garage sales and buy them for about 10-15 cents each or cheaper. Some dealers also sell old magazines. Again, first find out which ones are most desirable. Check out garage sales and especially rummage sales at churches or schools for books. Although small, profit can be at least 50% or better.

Yard Work
If you have fairly good tools, cut lawns, rake areas, etc. Gotta do a good job though!!

Useful Services
Look for needs in parking lots, parks, busy streets, in grocery stores, etc. Walking dogs, watering plants regularly in somebody's yard, doing the edge trimming work around lawns ((I'm sure there are people who dislike that job as much as I do and would pay a kid to do it) One young girl was paid $15/hr to watch a company machine seal envelopes. They couldn't afford to not have anybody there if it jammed.

Garage Door Art
Imagine all the plain, unattractive "canvasses" attached to almost every house just waiting to be covered. Offer to put on large house numbers, pleasant abstract patterns or landscapes. Match or extend the painting to a nearby garden or walkway. With a few cans of paint, brushes and imagination, you can be making $100 or more per garage door.

Porch Rail Painting
Ever notice all the rusty porch railings in your neighborhood? With minimum investment of a few basic colors of rust-proof paint, a wire brush, metal sandpaper and some good small hairy roller brushes, you could make a lot of money sprucing them up.

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uncomfortable exercise bike seat?

best gel seat cover spinning bike image

HelpMe

I recently bought an upright exercise bike from Walmart (Gold's gym power spin 210). It is incredibly uncomfortable and I would like to know if there is a way of replacing the seat with another one, kind of like a universal exercise seat that will fit on my bike? Thanks!

Answer
It looks like it is a proprietary seat and seat post from looking at the manual. You can try to keep riding and it will get better once you get use to it. Everyone has to go through butt training when they first start riding a bike even if they rode the whole summer before and took the winter off. You can try a gel seat cover or just use a piece of 1 inch foam. Raise the saddle high enough so that your leg is straight with the heel of you foot is over the center of the pedal and a slight bend with the ball of your foot in the same place.

Take shorter rides until you get use to it.

http://sheldonbrown.com/saddles.html

Ok Spinners..help me out please. I recently started spin class and love it but I am having bad tailbone pain.?

Andrea

Not the "sit bones" pain, I know that's expected. But this is my tailbone. I have had tail bone pain before, however never directly injured it. I had the instructor help with positioning. Shoud I try a gel seat of padded bike shorts?
also is there a certain way I should shift my weight to take the pressure off my tail bone?

Answer
Definitely go with padded shorts. Seat covers and gel seats are actually counter productive. They increase the surface area which may sound like a good thing, but in actuality it becomes more uncomfortable. Larger seats with larger surface area means you'll be putting weight on parts of your butt/nether regions that you shouldn't. It also can lead to more discomfort due to chafing (hence why most cyclists use small seats.)

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What is the difference between a spinner bike and an exercise bike?

best spin bike for training image

Teresa

I have been researching the spinner bike and it burns tons of calories. The bikes looks just like a regular exercise bike. Have anyone experience riding the spinner bike, is there a difference?

Answer
Hi Teresa! I'm familiar with spinner bikes. Normal users don't seem to care for them. The reason is motivation. A spinner bike is used best at a spinning class (say at the YMCA/YWCA where the teacher/class provide motivation) or purchased by "road warrior" cycling enthusiasts who are highly self motivated to supplement outdoor training when they can't "hit the road". In any event, without cycling or spinning training, a spinner bike should not be considered. With a spinner bike there's shifting involved and normally no programs or electronics to guide the user through a workout. In otherwords, it isn't the spinner bike that burns more calories, but the motivation to push oneself. Also, the average person can't handle the strenuous spinner bike workouts, so paying substantially more for a spinner bike, rather than a normal exercise bike (recumbent or upright) would be a waste of money. In the end, spinning without proper training could actually have a negative impact on a person's outlook, causing them to loose interest in exercising altogether...

You'll get a great cardio workout with either a recumbent or upright exercise bike. Quality exercise bikes will run $500 - $2,000 or more. Stay away from the low end bikes and look for one with a good warranty of 10 years or more. I'd suggest Endurance exercise bikes because they have Lifetime warranties. I hope that helps... Happy exercise bike hunting!

How do cyclists train in the winter?

Marcy

I'm on a road bike and considering starting training indoors? Any tips - I hate riding in the winter but want to stay in riding shape.

Answer
What most road cyclists do is take spinning classes in winter with one or two a week that are endurance spinning classes(two or three hour spinning classes). We also ride in weather that is 40 degrees & dry in Winter. You may have to wear tights or warmers, shoe covers, bacakva and a warm jacket but will do fine. Riding/Training in winter is do-able but stay dry.

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Where can I order a spinning bike for my home online?

the best spinning bikes for home use image

Justina

I am not looking for anything over the top expensive or overly fancy. Just something that I can hop on and do my thing if I can't get out for a run. Any suggestions on brands etc would be very much welcomed.

Answer
Google spinning bike and you can find all kinds of places.

im looking into buying a spin bike for home use? any tips?

ttwaters

I am tyring to buy a spin bike that is relatively cheap. I found some on ebay but does anyone else know where to look? and what does the weight for a flywheel mean (im checking out a model that is made by gymtronix with a 40lb flywheel) thanks!

Answer
Invest in a small TV....it's boring!!

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How hard is it to complete 75 mile bike ride?

best position for spinning bike image

JRSmith

My friends ask me to ride 75 mile bike ride and I haven't rode a bike any significant distance in years. Is this something I should even attempt or do you have to work yourself up to something like this. I'm 41 years old so I'm not a spring chicken but I'm not a coach potato. My friend is like 58 years old in great shape and he does this every year. Just wondering if I have what it takes to finish.

Answer
When is this 75 mile ride coming up? If it's within the next month or two...forget it. Try again next year. You're going to need some serious training. So much to learn. Two biggest problems most newbies have is saddle height & cadence.

Your legs should extend to the point where there is a slight bend in the knee at the 6 o'clock position. The ball of the foot should be on the center of the pedal. If anything more than a slight bend...raise the saddle.

A good pair of toe-clip pedals or Shimano SPD pedals with those special shoes would be extremely helpful. This will give you power on the up-stroke & the down-stroke. Beware...you'll be using muscle groups rarely used & may wind up getting a 'Charley Horse' or two, or three.

Read up on 'spinning' vs. 'pushing' or mashing on the pedals in too high of a gear. Shoot for a cadence between 70 to 90 rpm at all times. Raise the cadence level even more for hill climbing, but probably in a lower gear or gears. The faster you can 'spin', the easier it is to pedal.

Good stuff from the late Sheldon Brown & Bicycling.com on the links.

How to make a shit bike worth riding?

The Bees K

I'm 17, 5'2" and I wanted to have a bike to ride around town, less than 10 miles at a time at the very most. My boyfriend gave me this old Huffy Stone Mountain bike somebody gave him and he had to fix the back tire. I know the bike is probably shit, especially for road rides, but how can I make my ride better? I took it out for a short ride yesterday and the bottom of my butt took a beating, right on the bone. I have no idea how big the frame is buy the way. How can I make this little-bike-that-could better suited for a road ride? Also, I have to do this as cheaply as humanly possible. Help!

Answer
The

make sure the seat s at a correct height. When seated, your legs should almost be straight when your pedals are in the six o'clock position. Second, realize that you are out of shape. Just like in a gym, when you first start out you are toning to,get sore. So DON'T over do it! It is easy to ver do it on a bike.

Lastly, get a good pair of padded s cycling shorts, either road or mtn bike shorts. There is a reason that they have been around for over one hundred years virtually unchanged.

Do not pedal,at a slow rate WITH high (hard) pedal pressure. You should spin the pedals at about 70 rpm with a MODERATE pedal pressure. Read up.... Or ask here about "spinning".

Soccerref

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What are the special trainers used for spin classes and where can I buy them?

best spinning bike shoes image

Regina Pha

I go to spin classes and i know that there are special trainers that stick to the pedal, to help me go faster, but I don't know what they're called or where to buy them-can anyone help me?

Answer
You are talking about clipless pedals.

Spin bikes generally use SPD pedals and cleats for your shoes. You can buy the SPD clips at any bike shop or online. They are shaped like a little arrow and are metal. They are the mountain bike shoe cleats. They are under $20.

You will likely have to buy bike shoes too. I strongly recommend mountain bike shoes because they have tread on them whereas road bike shoes have a slick (sometimes carbon) sole. I have taken a bad slip wearing my old road shoes in spin class and then jumping off the bike and walking the tiled hall to the restroom.

check out these links
Shoes:
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/sub_cat.cfm?subcategory_id=2120

kinda pricey but will last you for years.

Cleats:
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=1844&subcategory_ID=10047

The cleats are shown on a black shoe insert. You typically will not use that part. Once you get your gear, take it to a bike shop and have someone put on your clips for you. ( or buy it from your local bike shop)
But if you do it yourself, start with your clip placement exactly in the middle. If knee pressure or pain results, they you can play with repositioning the cleats on the bottom of your shoe.

Just verify with your spin instructor that they use SPD compatible pedals. For a time we had 2 bikes with Look system pedals and that is very different ( and highly unlikely in spin class)

What is a good starter road bike for a first triatholon?

Q. Im training for my first triatholon and am looking for a good road bike for the riding portion. I have been training on a stationary bike at the gym and am needing to get some miles done on a road bike. Ive looked at some local, Houston Tx, bike shops and the prices are well over what I want to spend on a bike. Any suggestions on brands and dealers would be great.

Answer
Ebay! Start with bikes 4 years and older, aluminum, at least 10 speeds. Riding in a Tri is a lot like riding a century. Bike fit and comfort are more important than saving weight. If your position and pedal stroke are comfortable to you, chances are they're more efficient as well.

Then, invest in a set of Tri Aero Bars.. around 60 bucks, and practice with them. More than you think you should! If you wait till the day of your triathlon, you'll dump, wipe, face plant, or hurt someone else the first time you get the wobbles. Make sure you're riding intervals and sprints, not just long distance, low effort spins on an exercise bike.

Anything by one of the larger cycle manufacturers will suit you fine as long as you're comfortable with the bike, it has a big gear you can spin for an hour at high speed, and you rack up the seat time in prep for race day. Good Luck!

And to the Chris S below me.. I agree seem like they are a purely optional expediture, but I have found that they come in very handy when resting your arms and shoulders before or after a long swim. My Veloton group actually restricts their use in TT due to 2 or 3 guys riding aero bars in a paceline last year. A direct result of poor planning on the part of the organizers, but needless to say, that particular group ended up with a broken clavicle, a broken collarbone, three green-stick arm fractures, and yards of road rash!

Also, Have to ditto the shoes and pedals. Most of all though, be comfortable. Dont buy new gear the day before your Tri. If you havent trained in or on it, chances are it will just hurt you.

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Dont you get tired of hearing "I went 200 mph" on my bike?

best spin bike under $600 image

Secondz Aw

Why is it that people with Busaâs swear they have been 200mph on their stock or slightly modded bikes. For starters, the bikes are restricted to 186mph. Also, pretty much every sport riding publication has tested both Busaâs and ZX-14âs WITHOUT restrictions and couldnât reach 200mph, most of them never even broke 190mph. Cycle World Magazine claimed to have reached a top speed on a 99 un-restricted Busa of 194 mph, but the closest any other national publication got was 190 mph on the 99 un-restricted model. Remember were talking about professional riders on closed courses, not some kid at bike night who thinks the freeway is his personal drag strip.

Another problem that people donât seem to want to except is that unless the speed your going has been GPS or LIDAR verified, your NOT going that speed. The big 4 motorcycle manufacturers, Independent groups and the prominent Magazines all will and do tell you the same thingâ¦â¦The Speedoâs on the bikes are off. Now they wont say how much, most will down play the numbers to 1-3%, but even if thatâs all it was, at 186 mph (less the 3 percent) your actual speed would be 180.4 mph. However most independent studies have confirmed that the number is actually more like between 6-9%. ( which would mean your speedo 186mph is really 11.1-16.7 less that in actual mph).

Its funny, but people seem to think the rule of physics donât apply to them when the straddle a Sportbike. To even reach 190 mph you have to beat the physics of what it takes to reach that speed. For exampleâ¦â¦.The Coefficient drag, Aerodynamic drag, tire growth at speed due to increased pressure when it heats up, amount of grip a the pavement has, amount of slippage a tire has (tire slip increases with speed due to aerodynamic drag. The wheel may be spinning at a certain speed but the bike is not.), relative humidity, Esoteric cooling, head or cross winds, rolling resistance, internal resistance and certainly the size of the rider. The bigger the rider, the more amount of drag he/she will generate.

Super Street Bike Magazine took a 2nd Gen Busa to Hondaâs 7 mile oval test facility in the Mohave desert with hopes of cracking 200 mph. The rider was over 6 foot, 200 plus lbâsâ¦kinda your âevery guyâ rider. They modded the busa as follows : KR Tuned full exhaust, PC III, Quick shifter, K&N Filter, TRE and a +25hp shot of NOS. The Busa cracked the dyno at just over 207 hp and the best run they picked up was 194.2 mph.

Now Brocks Performance was able to crack 200mph on a âlesser moddedâ 2nd gen Busa, but even that is pushing it. They ran full exhaust, PC III, custom mapping, performance filter, specialized on board computer, a team of data analysts on the side, special bearings, lighter wheels, custom made chain, custom made sprockets, modified air boxâ¦â¦.but yes they did reach just under 202 mphâ¦â¦lol

I just donât get how people can say they went 200 mph on stock or lightly modded bikes, when the data clearly shows time and time againâ¦..you cant.

If you havenât had major engine work done, arenât running a turbo or serious NOSâ¦..give it upâ¦.Next time you think your stock or slightly modded Busa or 14 is getting 200 mph, go to the Texas Mile or to Maxtonâ¦..tell them youâre here to join the 200 clubâ¦see how well that works out for youâ¦..Iâm sure they could use a good laugh.

Your STOCK Hyperbike or 1000 isnt doing 186, your 750 isnt doing 186, your 600 might not even make 160 ACTUAL mphâ¦â¦stop living the lieâ¦.your just making yourself look stupid.

As a sport rider myself I get so tired of hearing this âI did 200 or 190 crapâ from kids who donât even know how to balance a check bookâ¦..I canât be the only one can I?

Answer
You are right on! I used to hear a lot of guys brag, but not so many now. Very few bikes or cars on the road will actually get over 190 mph, I have a good shut down for any braggers, as I have a 200 mph Bonneville record,on a dual engined Kawasaki, (record set in 1979, non believers can look up the record). Best one way was 206.351,on return, with slight tail wind. Down run was only about 194, with a head wind. Tach was 1000 rpm higher on the down run. In 1981, the bike was named "The High Speed Ditch Witch" by another competitor, he got his front tire in a little ditch I dug, and could not get out for 3 miles. In still air, moderately dry salt, top speed was limited to about 204, then wheel spin set in. You get into the same type problems on normal highway, traction is not as critical on highway, but you will still get some slippage, many things combine to determine top speed. With a fairing on the old bike, I had one pass, 3 mph headwind, 209mph. Without fairing, would have been about 200mph, at 1000 rpm more.

Hope this sheds a bit of light on the high speed quirks of the sport.

Tomcotexas,

What kind of oil does a Honda shadow take?

Seth

I just bought a 93 honda shadow 600 vtwin vlx. It has about 30k miles on it. The previous owner had it sitting a while and I'm not sure when the last time it was serviced was so i'd like to change out all the fluids. Thing is this is my first bike and I don't know the first thing about maintaining a bike. So what kind of fluids do I need? As in what oil weight, and does this model have a filter? The guy at the shop said some do, some don't. I couldn't find one. Also what kind of coolant, brake fluid, etc might I need? The biggest downside of the bike is it didn't come with the owners manual.

Answer
I use Rotella T Full Synthetic 5w40 in my '95 VLX.
No, this bike does NOT have a cartridge type oil filter, it has a spin-on. The oil filter is under the left side of the engine, near the rear, about where the side stand mounts. I use this Big Bike Parts wrench to remove the filters from my Hondas.
I use either a Purolator "Pure One" PL14612, or the Walmart Super Tech cross-over.
http://www.bigbikeparts.com/images/press%20release%20pics/4-201.jpg

Use DOT 4 brake fluid and Prestone coolant mixed 50/50 with filtered water.

I bought a Haynes manual. Maybe these guys can steer you on to an owners manual.

http://vlxriders.20m.com/index.html

Almost every bike has a removable oil filter, a very few have a screen. Find a different shop, "the guy" doesn't know bikes.

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How 2 keep the habit? & What cardio exercises do you like? Why?

best spin bike workout dvd image

deva s

I exercise sporadically (can do a few times a week for a few weeks then go days or weeks without & start the cycle again). I want to exercise almost daily (at least 5 times a week) to get my heart into shape but the excuses keep coming up.
Don't like 2 exercise in public by self (feel embarrassed) and don't know anyone 2 workout with like this, not much room in the house 2 do a lot (but I do exercise 2 fit tv at times), can't do at night when there's a free class at a local church (have other obligations can't get out of), don't have much money for gym membership (which would be the best thing for me I think, especially if it's competitive with encouragement). I live in a country-hick type city where I don't think it would be safe on the streets & there's not much going on exercise wise.
Motivated by 90s+ dance music (when I used to be really into exercise). I like dancing, gymnastics, etc. but there's no room for the kind I like. Are there free/cheap clubs out there? Suggestions?

Answer
Simply buy a home fitness equipment and work on it like 45 min a session every other day.

Your money will be well spent, you just do your aerobics in private...


Rowing machine
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/Product-Detail.asp?MCat=4&CategoryID=835&ProductLineID=897

Recumbent bike
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/Product-Detail.asp?MCat=4&CategoryID=835&ProductLineID=144

Stepper
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/Product-Detail.asp?MCat=4&CategoryID=835&ProductLineID=449

Treadmill
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/Product-Detail.asp?MCat=4&CategoryID=835&ProductLineID=225

Elliptical
http://www.fitbiz.com.au/Product-Detail.asp?MCat=4&CategoryID=835&ProductLineID=899


Just pick the one you like. I like the stepper and rowing machine myself, if they are not available, I run on the treadmill in the gym. (if you get one of those machines, you will not have to face the same problem - to line up in the gym LOL) How to keep the habit? If you do it regularly, it becomes a habit, if it's a habit, you don't have to keep it, habits are hard to break otherwise it's not called a habit... LOL

If you feel monotonous on those machines, let me introduce to you the...

... [[[ DANCE MAT ]]]

Source: http://www.jr.com/JRProductPage.process?Product=4135217&JRSource=nsa&nsa=1



There is also a girls website that talks about aerobic choices as well, hope you are interested:



"AEROBIC CHOICES

Aerobic classes (alternatively, dance to a DVD)
Biking (outdoors... not your cup of tea)
Biking (indoors, also called spinning)
Dancing (even to the radio!)
Jogging (outside or on the treadmill, or brisk walking)
Stairmaster (or running up and down stairs but make sure the stairs are "safe" for this purpose)
Running (outside or on the treadmill)
Rowing (indoor or on the river)
Skipping (jumping rope) â¦

...and there are many others... just be sure to start slowly and work your goal up to 20-30 minutes 3 days a week [it is necessary to keep your heart rate up, which helps burn stored fat] each day for whatever exercise you choose. In order to get the most benefit and the most fat loss, it is important to keep up the activity for at least 20-30 minutes

AND keep your heart rate up...REMEMBER YOUR TARGET HEART RATE IS 220 [minus] (Your Age) = Target Heart Rate [This number is the highest rate your heart should beat per minute during intense exercise...

However, you should try to keep your heart rate around 70-80% of that number during the whole workout]...

â¦you can do it, just give yourself some time. It does take time! Make sure you keep your diet in check too!"

Source: http://www.girlguides.org.nz/girlfrenz/go-fitness.asp#aerobic

==========================

Ryan has something to say about 10 good reasons not to quit your exercise:

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/topshal.htm

...if your situation changed and allowed you to join a gym, it would be much easier for you to keep the habit as you said. It's not cheap or easy to run a gym, if there is anything free or cheap, they may be very small or located in remote areas, or with very few facilities and unattended (no instructors)... how about morning classes? I meet with my students early in the morning in order not to interfere with their daily routine.

==============>

Free download of DANCE music:

http://music.download.com/2001-8000_32-0.html?tag=MDL_nav_dir&


^_^ good luck

What is a good workout routine?

asha083190

I'm not fat I just want to tone my abs, legs, and butt.

Answer
there are millions to choose from!

you could take up a class, such as dancing, yoga, pilates or a general workout class like aerobics, spinning or step aerobics.

you could invest in some workout DVD's and get fit in the comfort of your own home.

you can dig out your running shoes or bike and just generally get active.

you could book a one of session with a personal trainer at a gym who will design a workout routine especially for you.

remember to change your workout regularly though, so your body does not become used to it!

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