General Cycling Discussion - More questions after a long ride

Ok, I did a 2+hr ride today. Didnt go nearly as far as I was hoping due to the strong headwind no matter which way I turned. I wish I was being sarcastic but Im not. Id be heading one way with a head wind, turn 90 degrees, headwind again. Killed me. Now the questions. I have aerobars on my bike, budding triathlete, and Im not sure the proper position for them. Anyone know of some articles for that? I couldnt stay in the aero position very long, got sore in the shoulders. I recently moved them closer together. What about angling them up? Ive heard a little angle up but how much? Also, if Im having lower back aches and stuff while riding is it due to my setup, ie saddle position and height, handlebars etc? What should I play with to get myself dialed in? I feel kind of dumb because Ive had the bike since mid feb and I have made adjustments but nothing feels absolutely right. Thanks for anything.

The aero positin takes a bit of getting used to. You'll have to experiment a bit to find the best angle. I have mine up about 15 deg. from horizontal, but I'm not competing or anything, that's just for comfort and a change of position, and a little extra speed. As you get used to them you'll probably have to change them again. I found this year I had to make some adjustments at the start of the year, as last years position didn't feel right.

I tried aero bars a couple of times but I prefer good old drop handlebars. I've ridden thousands of kilometres with drops and I can't see any reason to get myself used to aeros.

Obviously they suit a lot of people but you may be better off without them. I know I am.

Any other ideas?

Originally posted by TriDevil
[B]Ok, I did a 2+hr ride today. Didnt go nearly as far as I was hoping due to the strong headwind no matter which way I turned.


Just remember that what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger :)



I have aerobars on my bike, budding triathlete, and Im not sure the proper position for them. Anyone know of some articles for that?


Here's one: http://www.sarkproducts.com/seatheightaerobars.htm

You can find more by searching for aerobars +positioning on Google.



I couldnt stay in the aero position very long, got sore in the shoulders. I recently moved them closer together. What about angling them up?


Positioning will differ between riders. I'd suggest taking an allen wrench out on the ride with you and try adjusting the bars in different positions to see which position finally feels right. Once you find that position snug things down and you'll be set.

Something to keep in mind is your body has to adjust to these new riding positions so give it some time. Take a look at this picture. It's of me when I was world champ :)

http://club.telepolis.com/alcab/lemond4.jpg

Seriously though, it's the man hammerin' down the road. I wouldn't recommend looking straight down at the ground like he's doing.

While you're on Google search the images for Greg Lemond and you'll see some additional pics of him down on the bars.

Zack