Originally Posted by
bruce19
I think it's situational. Some people find lower cadence to be more effective when climbing. It has a lot to do with body type. My comments here are meant to apply to recreational cyclists. I don't think it's a one size fits all thing.
I find that I vary my cadence on hills based on a lot of factors, including how tired I am, the heat, and winds. If I'm tired or getting overheated, I will spin a hill in a lower gear, but if I'm up for the attack, I am going to mash it.
I ride 140 miles in 90 degree heat last Saturday, and by the end of that I wasn't attacking anything but food.