How to Cycle faster without really trying

Over the years I have watched many MTC members racing on their bikes, and although there is no substitute for training, small changes to their bike set up could have cut their race times with out any extra effort or in many cases outlay of money.

Ten Golden rules for going faster. (not in any particular order)

  • 1. Pump up your tyres: The harder your tyres the lower the rolling resistance and the faster you will go. BUT do not exceed the maximum pressure designated for your tyre and to do the job properly you need a track pump with a gauge. You should pump up your tyres to a set pressure before every race.
  • 2. Use good quality tyres: These can set you back £20-40 each but they are worth it. Good tyres weigh less, can take higher pressures and so have less rolling resistance, and you get a better ride. As for width I use either 18mm or 20mm tyres but up to 23mm is OK. Wider tyres give a better ride but are less aerodynamic and weigh more. I use Veloflex Record clinchers and Vittoria Chrono tubs.
  • 2. Wear close fitting clothing: Probably the simplest way to a faster time is to wear clothing that does not flap about in the wind. The rider is the biggest source if drag and so anything that will reduce rider drag will have large benefits in terms of times. Ideal is a cycling skin suit but many cycling and Tri tops are close fitting and will do a good job. ALSO when you wear a number on the back make sure it is pinned on so it lays flat and does not flap about.

    • Chris Storey in the CRC 50 mile TT; note no pump; close fitting clothing and aero wheels.

  • 4. Take anything you do not need for the race off your bike. If you are not going to take a drink take off your bottle cage- it only takes 30 seconds. If you don't need a pump don't carry one.
  • 5. MOST IMPORTANT of all get a good aero position. If you look at the best cyclists they get very low and so are aerodynamic. I repeat that the rider is the biggest source of drag and reducing rider drag will have the biggest effect on cycling speed. A good position will save you more time than disc wheels or a titanium frame and doesn't cost a penny.
  • 6. Make your bike lighter. You can easily spend silly money making a bike lighter with carbon fibre and titanium parts. It helps BUT drag is much more important: spend money on aerodynamic gains not weight loss.
  • 7. Make your bike more aerodynamic. After the rider the bike is the largest source of drag and improving bike aerodynamics means spending money. I am assuming you use tri-bars - if not buy some now. They can cost as little as £45 and can reduce times by minutes; If you are thinking of buying a new wheel go for an aerodynamic front as this will have more effect than an rear. A front will cost £200 upward and a rear a bit more. Discs are the fastest rear wheels but cost £350-700. Second hand wheels are often good value as they are usually in good condition. Many will have only been used in races, kept in a wheel bag and so had a cosseted life.
  • 8. Good maintenance. Keep your bike clean and oil and grease moving parts.
  • 9. Good technique I. This is often overlooked but good technique in cornering and descending can save many seconds.

    • Charles McCulloch displaying how to ride a corner at speed; Note no pump, close fitting clothing; aero wheels and hat, Drink is in camel back under skin suit.

  • 10. Good technique II. Be smooth. The best cyclists have an easy, smooth action and spin the pedals at high revs, they do not push big gears to go fast but use small gears and spin; just look at Lance Armstrong. Your upper body should be relaxed and not move about from side to side in order to push the pedals down. In winter you should practice spinning in the 90 to 110 pedals per min range so when you race fast spinning is second nature.
  • 11. (yes I know I said there would be 10 but this is MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL) Get a good aero position. I repeat get a good aero position. If you look at the best cyclists they get very low and so are aerodynamic and go fast. I repeat that the rider is the biggest source of drag and reducing rider drag has the biggest effect on cycling speed. A good position will save you more time than disc wheels or a titanium frame and is free.

Written by Chris Storey, last updated 10th Feb 2006