Originally Posted by
on the path
Can we get some comment from or about people with longer legs? Do longer legs affect how high one can effectively cadence? Laws of physics and limitations of geometry certainly affect gymnasts, etc. How might the same effect cyclists with longer legs??
Is 36.5" inseam long enough? I routinely turn my 175 cranks at 100-110 rpms flatland cruising, and 90+ on mountain-pass climbs.
The limiting factor IME is not leg length, but crank length. I've tried 180's a few times over the years, and every time my cadence always drops a few RPM: proportional to the diff in crank length. The main reason I keep coming back to 175's is the limited options available in 180 (like NO road triples - compact or "standard" road cranks only!).
And BTW, I spent the early years of my cycling "career" cultivating a smooth pedal stroke and fast cadence. Also raced track for several years, and used LOW (54-66") fixed gears for early season training. All of that gave me the ability to turn 200rpm for short bursts, as the need arises, which it doesn't much any more.
SP
Bend, OR