Originally Posted by
surgeonstone
It does not work the quads more. Think of it. What is the perfect isolating exercise for quad development ? Leg extensions on a weight machine. How much can you comparatively lift by quad function versus hamstring function? Very little. The primary motion in cycling is extension of the thigh with very little leg extension. The muscles involved in this motion are the hamstrings and glutes.
Umm, no.... Quads get the bulk of the work. Hams are involved, but much less, proportionally. There are some wonderful graphs showing involvement of the various leg muscles during the revolution of the pedal.
My personal example is just looking at the changes in my leg muscles since starting riding - my hams have developed, for sure, but it is the quads that are startling in their change.