Originally Posted by SonataInFSharp
I haven't stood on the pedals to climb a hill since I was 12 years old. In fact, I thought you weren't "supposed" to stand--for anything--while riding a bike.
I am not being sarcastic, that is just what I thought.
Some folks like to sit, some prefer to stand...either way will get you to the top.
In general, larger riders do best when seated, while smaller riders tend to do better standing.
I used to be a "sit and spin" guy, but since losing some weight I find I can now climb very efficiently out of the saddle. I even practice standing technique on a local 2 mile 6% climb...I can do the whole thing in about 10-11 minutes without sitting down or feeling thrashed.
Standing is also a good way to :
Reduce pressure on your bottom.
Get over a steep section (e.g., switchbacks)
Change the muscles you're using for a few minutes during a long climb.
Look really cool.
