What’s the hardest thing about riding a bike? Talking about it.
Whether you’re new to cycling or you’ve been riding for a while now and still don’t know the difference between your bicycle’s saddle and clip ins, this guide is going to be your savior.
Steed: Cycling without a steed is like horseback riding without a horse. It does roll from point A to point B with a little push from the legs. Steed Chainless Bicycles comes with Propeller shaft drive system, Internal gear hub & Twist shifter to make it a reliable lifestyle product with more durable than the conventional chain cycles.
Drafting: When a group of cyclists’ ride in a line, one behind another, that is called drafting. It is a technique used to reduce wind resistance and help riders expend less energy as a result. Even the leader enjoys a little less wind resistance than he or she would if riding solo thanks to a low-pressure air bubble between riders, which pushes the leader forward.
Saddle: Cyclists deserve a little cushion during all their pushing! The saddle, or bike seat, is where rear ends can rest while the legs spin away. Not known for optimum comfort, the saddle will at least hold you steady during a long day on the road. And newer saddle designs, such as the “no-nose,” promise to limit groin pain.
Roadie: A roadie, or road geek, is a devoted road cyclist. Roadies know what’s up in the cycling world and could probably teach a rookie biker a thing or two about steeds and riding techniques.
Chasers: Chasers are the cycling go-getters. These riders crank away to pass riders ahead.
Clip-ins: Clip-ins, also known as step-ins and clipless pedals are a type of bike pedal that lock onto the cleat of a special cycling shoe so that the rider is firmly attached to the pedal. To lock into clip-ins, firmly step down and forward until it clicks. To unclip, twist the heels outwards.
Brain bucket: Cover your cranium. Make sure to wear a cycling hard hat, the helmet is a cyclist’s most important piece of gear! So don’t be that newbie cyclist without a brain bucket.
Road/racing tires: Racing tires are made narrow, without tread, and kept at high pressures to minimize friction and maximize speed. The tires are usually inflated to 110-120 psi (pounds per square inch) making them rock hard.
Clincher: A clincher is the standard road bike tire unit that includes the rubber tire.
Aero: Short for aerodynamic, is used to describe gear, bike frames, helmets, and wheels that are designed for minimal wind resistance. This term pops up for races like time trials and triathlons.
Bibs: These are cycling shorts that have a bib or suspenders instead of an elastic waistband. Most cyclists prefer bib shorts, since an elastic band can cause discomfort or chafe when you’re in the bent-over cycling position. Many brands are updating the classic design with new features like adjustable straps.
Bikepacking: Bikepacking is the synthesis of mountain biking and minimalist camping; it evokes the freedom of multi-day backcountry hiking, with the range and thrill of riding a mountain bike. Sometimes called randonnée or brevet, it’s a form of long-distance cycling where you load everything you need on your bike frame.
Bonk: Also known as “hitting the wall,” it means you’ve run out of energy due to glycogen depletion. No glycogen, no pedal power. Endurance athletes who skimp on food or hydration often bonk and need rest, H2O, and high-carb foods to recover.
Cross chaining: When the chain is either on the big ring in the front and the easiest (or biggest) ring in the back or on the small ring in the front and the smallest (or hardest) ring in the back. This stretches the chain across the cassette and sometimes causes a weird noise.
Cycling shoes: These shoes with a stiff sole and a cleat lock into special bike pedals, allowing for a more efficient transfer of power. You can wear these on bicycles or in indoor cycling classes.
Don’t let the lingo keep you from that cycling life. This quick and easy guide will make your journey less intimidating.
Happy Cycling!
