pedal in seat v going for it

seanie500

so on a steep hill what do you do get out of the saddle and pedal like mad or pedal as per normal without getting off the saddle

where do ya draw the line?:eek:

Lumen

Here, here (PDF), here.

Whatever's fastest for you, probably a bit of both.

In the saddle = easier on lungs. Out of the saddle = easier on legs.

Cue Pantani videos etc...

Bikerbhoy

Getting out of the saddle is a way to increase your power for a short burst,seated climbing is more efficent as climbing out of saddle uses alot more of your body muscles mainly to support your body weight, therefore energy costs are greater.
Seated climbing using lower gears to maintain a higer cadence is generally the way to go ( unless you are a reincarnation of Marco) although getting out of saddle for short periods does ease pressure on lower back.
Obviously if the gradient steepens enough you have no choice but to get out of the saddle in order to maintain a sensible pace.

PS : ALWAYS RESPECT THE DECENT

Blaalarry

I cycled all over the world inc the grand Atlas Mountains in morocco andThe Alps. For a long climb stay in the saddle after a short (1/2 K) shift standing. For short steep climbs, stand up.

Quigs Snr

Theres no simple answer to this. Its as individual as its possible to be.

For example I can horse up a long climb out of the saddle all the way, but I am light and just find it easier to go faster that way. I know other climbers who are the same weight and roughly same power output who have better results sitting all the way. I look at some of the heavier riders too who cannot stand for more than a few seconds on a steep climb, so your weight definitely is a factor too.

Just do whatever works for you. Eventually you will figure it out, no armchair expert here in the internet can give you the correct answer without bringing you out for a spin or two.

seanie500

cheers to all thought that alright about using less energy climbing when sitting - my excuse anyway

good articles those on climbing technique interesting reading