Aznman

I have been searching the web, and I think I got it: arch your back a little, but keep it mostly straight; do not fold your belly.

Just to be sure: is this correct for all positions (upright, drop, aero-bar, etc.)?

Thank you

fietsbob

What are your Cycling Goals ? speed or what?


FWIW the pressure on the "soft Tissues" is less if you keep your hips upright and Bend forward, in your lumbar region ie above the Pelvis.


It's just common sense ..

Carbonfiberboy 

Except that just destroys one's back and neck. That's only true if one is using an saddle of long-outdated design like a Brooks or the like. Modern saddles allow a perfectly comfortable butt with the back actually level, which most folks flexibility and weight won't allow anyway.

Don't arch your back. Try to achieve a straight back. Most rides can't quite manage even that. Lance rode with a rounded back, for instance. Roll your pelvis forward until you are perched on the front of your sit bones. If you have a trainer or rollers, use a mirror to evaluate your position. And yes, same straight back in all positions, as much as possible. There are limitations, depending on the bike and the positions that one's body will allow. Your thighs can't pound your ribs, for instance. You have to be able to breathe. I find I breathe better with a straighter back versus a more rounded back. On my rollers, my HR will go down a couple of beats just from straightening my back.

As one's position becomes more aero and the back more horizontal, it is usual to move further forward on the saddle to open the hip angle. Some saddles will allow one to do this in relative comfort, some won't.

https://www.bikeforums.net/road-cycli...discovery.html
Pedaling Efficiency.wmv - YouTube
The second link illustrates most features of good bike fit and position, as well as pedaling technique.

fietsbob

I've been fine for 50+ years .. I Never tried to race so l never needed to bend over that far.

do as you wish , if it hurts, rethink it.

anthonybkny

great links, thanks for sharing

jyl

This is the limiting factor for me. Less padding on my ribs would be helpful.