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.
Cruising upright on a MTB at 20mph would require some serious fitness, like you said probably in excess of 300W would be needed. That's some pretty solid power, even if you are a big guy. 20 mph on a road bike in good position still requires decent fitness, but not something on the order of the 5w/kg needed to cruise around at 300W (probably need somewhere in this ballpark to be able to cruise at 300W as no one really "cruises" at FTP).
I'm not going to say 5 w/kg is unattainable, but not on a short timeframe, and it's significantly better than your average hobbyist cyclist is capable of.