Originally Posted by
KC8QVO
How do you handle segments of rough roads on your rides? What if everywhere you ride is rough?
I think the simple answer is drop tire pressure, but I'm curious how you guys handle things. Has anyone gone to a meaty'er tire? How about racks and panniers - do you have much concern for them?
I am battling northern plains roads that have gone through the harsh winter and haven't fared so well. looking for some ideas.
Wider tires will help but
how you ride is as important as the tires you ride on. Jim Kukula's comment
Originally Posted by
Jim Kukula
I don't have tons of experience but it sure does seem to me that the equipment does need to fit the situation. My bike from 1996 to 2010 was a Trek 520... I think it had 28mm tires. Hauling down hills and hitting potholes at speed... I do believe that's how my rims got a bit funny. At that was without luggage! So on my new bike I have 50mm tires! Plus a Brooks Flyer = a sprung saddle.
is indicative of someone who doesn't understand
how to ride rough roads. He's not alone. Most people sit in the saddle like it's a Barcalounger and just slam the bike into whatever is under the wheels. This is the wrong way to ride a bike when the going gets rough.
Even with a loaded touring bike, you should never plant yourself in the saddle and just plow through potholes and rough roads. Go find some videos of mountain bikers and watch how they negotiate just about any trail. The rider is up out of the saddle...even with dual suspension bikes...and using their legs and arms to absorb the impact. Your arms and legs will do a far better job than any kind of spring...including sophisticated suspension systems.
Even on the road, you should be doing this with regularity. If you are a dead weight in the saddle, the bike (and you) are taking all the impact and will eventually start damaging something. In the case of the bike, the wheels and frame suffer while you beat up delicate tissues that can get painful quickly.