How can I become a better bicycle rider?

Question

Endurance, power, sustained speed, etc... I don't seem to have any! Do I just keep riding and will they come to me eventually? When do you start noticing?

Answer 1

I know this sound like something your parents would say to you but practise. When i first started riding i rode 36 km and i was stuffed by the end now its easy. The more u ride your muscles will get stronger.

Answer 2

As you ride more, your power and sustained speed will increase. It happens gradually as you get into better shape. The first place you will notice it will probably be on a short hill. At first, you'll struggle to get up the hill. After a while, it won't seem so hard.

Two great cyclists had wise words about training. Arguably the greatest racer in the history of the sport, Eddie Merckx said, "Just ride lots." The first American to win the Tour de France, Greg Lemond said, "It never gets easier, you just go faster."

Welcome to the sport. Keep at it and you'll enjoy it more every ride.

HTH

Answer 3

It does come with time.   Like most things, you get out of it what you put into it.   Proper nutrition is also key;  you need the carbs for energy, and the protein to rebuild muscles.

Mixing up your routine will also help.  If you just ride the same lazy bike path day after day, your body gets used to it and you dont see results.  I ride distance when the wind is low and weather is nice, then hop on my mountain bike when its too windy to ride my road bike.  By mixing the two disciplines, you get great results.    And be sure to rest a day or two a week, or anytime your body 'tells' you its tired.  Overtraining robs muscle and is not good.

Answer 4

I don't know what your experience is at this point, but you can only improve if you set goals and practice routines that focus on improvement.

Some things that I've found that help:

-Set regular times to ride / practice.

-Measure out rides / routes that focus on area you want to improve, hills, sprints, distance, recovery rides.

-Find a partner to ride with that has similar goals for riding

-Participate in an organized ride or race.

-If you are not making improvement on your own.... find a trainer to help you.

Answer 5

You gotta be patient. I suggest you read Lance Armstrong's bestselling book, " It's Not About the Bike"---he had cancer and had to totally stop riding when the ordeal begun.  He thought he would NEVER ride again but with some guts, motivation and help from professionals, he got on his bike and WON MORE TOUR de FRANCES .  It's a testimony of his belief in overcoming all odds and being the best cyclist in the world.  Ride the wind!

Answer 6

Ride lots, join a club or a team.