Originally Posted by
torque cyclist
i'm looking to increase my power output. Both HP (or watts) and Torque. So what i'm interested in noting is how much most cyclist are concerned about each factor; Power, RPM and Torque.
My bike has a 21 speed Shimano EF40, 48 tooth front (highest) and as low as 14 tooth rear. 26 inch rim
Personal stats
195 lbs, 5 foot 5
bike 45lbs (about)
Now, I personally like to cruise in the final gear (48x14) and turn about 50-60 rpm. according to bike calc, that plots me at 12.5-15 mph cruise speed. ranging 120 watts- 170 watts. Torque being around 17 lb/ft and 20lb/ft. I hope to be able to cruise 20mph in the future, and that's calculated for 305 watts, @ around 80 rpm 27lb/ft torque.
(MTB tires, and normal handlebars etc.)
I feel most comfortable at those lower RPM, but I can feel alright at about 80 in a lower gear. I was wondering if anyone else prefers a lower cadence as well. My legs are generally strong, but spinning faster is a bit more difficult.
what are you wanting to do? for fit humans a cadence of 50 to 60 is not in a good range for the way we work best. you can play around with numbers and calculations all you like but I suspect you are similar to any other human of your weight, height and fitness. (unless you look up and see the bottom side of a bridge)
What goals go you have? faster? Longer? Farther? Less hurt after?
Per your post you might want to do a bunch of squats at low rep and high weight. This will up the low rpm power numbers but not for long durations.
This is not the way to increase total power and duration on a bike BTW. Cardio fitness and cycling form will.