Possible stupid question

mandysmithers

I have been using a crappy old racer for the past few months. I recently got a new road bike, and the difference is unbelievable. I was out cycling during the week, on the highest gear, and there were times when I didn't feel that much resistance - I'm talking about when I was on a flat surface, not going up a hill. I really felt that I could have been in a much higher gear. It's got shimano gears, and they're pretty good, aren't they? So is it just that fact that I'm not used to such a light bike? It felt way too easy, really. And I was definitely on the highest gear, I checked.

Also, my arms and wrists were sore whilst cycling, well, after a while they gor sore. Would this be due to having the handle bars too high? They're higher than would be recommended, I think.

Thanks

Raam

as an FYI: the most efficient cadance is reported to be over 80. I try and keep mine over 90, but it takes some time to get used to it.

Make sure to move your hands to a different position on the bars. This can help avoid any stifness. It could be that you are just not used to the new bike yet.

Caroline_ie

If it feels easy, then don't question, just enjoy. As for the pain in arm and wrist, try not to grip your bars too tight, a lot of people new to cycling a road bike tend to hold the bars too strong. Just rest your hand rather than grip them too tight.

mandysmithers

Thanks for the advice!