How to Articles

Cyclists often refer to abrasions from crashes as "road rash." While a bike crash has the potential to cause a painful and severe abrasion, most abrasions are shallow scrapes that do not extend into the dermis and don't cause a great deal of bleeding. While there is often little or no blood loss from an abrasion, there can be a great deal of pain because of the many nerve endings that are … [Read more...] about How to Treat Cycling Road Rash

Riding a bike to and from work is a great way to stay fit and more fun than sitting in traffic in a car. However, if you want to arrive at your desk in one piece, it is important to always pay attention to other road users and be aware of your surroundings. Having cycled in many different countries over the years, I have encountered a wide variety of motorists, from considerate drivers who give … [Read more...] about Common Cycling Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Article by Fred Matheny and Ed Pavelka Cycling is a unique sport because its arena is the open road. That’s the same place frequented by traffic, potholes, snarling dogs and absentminded pedestrians. But sometimes we’re our own worst enemy. Inattention and poor technique can put us on the pavement as fast as any hazard. Use these tips and you’ll be less likely to take a tumble. Always ride … [Read more...] about How to Survive Road Hazards While Cycling

Article by Fred Matheny In cycling, it’s known as “hot foot” -- a burning pain in the ball of the foot, perhaps radiating toward the toes. Severe cases feel like some sadistic demon is applying a blowtorch. Hot foot occurs most often on long rides. It may develop sooner or more intensely on hilly courses because climbs cause greater pedaling pressure. The pain results when nerves are squeezed … [Read more...] about How to Solve Painful Hot Foot

Article by Fred Matheny A saddle sore can ruin a ride. Even a tiny zit can begin to feel like you’re perched on a golf ball. Nearly as painful are crotch abrasions caused by shorts that bunch or have an irritating seam. Even the pros, hardened by thousands of miles in the saddle, fall victim to what cycling author Arnie Baker, M.D., calls “crotchitis.” Fabled tough guys like Eddy Merckx and … [Read more...] about How to Solve Saddle Sores

Article by Fred Matheny and Ed Pavelka You should choose cycling shorts based on the quality of materials and construction. But also crucial is how well they conform to your unique anatomy. Shorts, like saddles, are tough to recommend because of differences in butts, crotches, seats and riding positions. Here are some guidelines that will help you make a more informed decision. Price. … [Read more...] about How to Choose Cycling Shorts

Keeping Your Bike Roadworthy and Safe on a Trip Cycling through Thailand is a safe activity, and with so many cyclists in the country you’ll be in good company. That said, things can always go wrong, no matter where in the world you are, so making sure you take a few precautions is never a bad thing. There are plenty of places you can have your bicycle repaired throughout the country, but when … [Read more...] about Keeping Your Bike Roadworthy and Safe on a Trip

Article by Ed Pavelka Since the late 1990s, saddle design has seen major innovation. A big impetus came from a prominent doctor's contention that sitting on a bike seat might lead to damaged nerves or blood vessels. This risk, plus the occasional bout of temporary genital numbness that many riders experience, put designers into action. The result is a new generation of saddles with special … [Read more...] about How to Select a Bicycle Saddle

Article by Fred Matheny Andy Pruitt’s name has become synonymous with sports medicine for cycling. As director of the CU Sports Medicine & Performance Center in Boulder, CO, Pruitt has made a career out of treating world-class riders such as Lance Armstrong and George Hincapie. In 1996, Pruitt served as chief medical officer for the U.S. Olympic Cycling Team. Pruitt is an elite athlete in his … [Read more...] about Sports Medicine Tips for Cyclists