General Cycling Discussion - Question on turning

When I'm about to make a right or left 60-90 degree turn, I find that the leg on the inside of the turn wants to be fully extended, but that puts the pedal closest to the road.

My simple question is this -- is that improper form? I've tried getting into a habit of pulling the inside leg up so that the outside pedal is lower, but that just doesn't feel intuitive. And I have to do it consciously or it doesn't happen.

Should I keep trying to break my old habit, or not?

When I'm about to make a right or left 60-90 degree turn, I find that the leg on the inside of the turn wants to be fully extended, but that puts the pedal closest to the road.

My simple question is this -- is that improper form? I've tried getting into a habit of pulling the inside leg up so that the outside pedal is lower, but that just doesn't feel intuitive. And I have to do it consciously or it doesn't happen.

Should I keep trying to break my old habit, or not?

Apparently your intuition has failed you miserably. When you turn, the outside pedal should be in the 6 o'clock position with body weight primarily on the down pedal. There are endless turning techniques that build on that from leaning in, leaning out, knee pointed into the turn to lower the center of gravity, etc., etc. About the first time you hit the pavement with an inside pedal, you will get a graphic illustration of one of the reasons the aforementioned technique(s) is used.

Practice until you do it naturally.

Thanks! I had a feeling that would be the answer (so I guess my intuition isn't always bad! lol) but wanted to hear from an expert. I'll undo the habit and learn the correct procedure.

Thanks! I had a feeling that would be the answer (so I guess my intuition isn't always bad! lol) but wanted to hear from an expert. I'll undo the habit and learn the correct procedure.

I catch myself on ocassion entering a turn improperly when I am day dreaming. Just think about it everytime you turn for awhile - you will be making safer and more efficient turns.

And try planting your weight on the outside pedal as you turn - not necessarily lifting your backside off the saddle, but taking the weight off it. It seems to push the bike harder into the ground

Good point Digital Gee.....I believe I have that same bad habit. :rolleyes:

Time for me to correct it too. :)