Tag Archive for: cycling

Achieve Your Perfect Bike Saddle Height

Adjusting your bike to the perfect saddle height is crucial in order to maximize comfort and payoff during your training rides for Kerrville Tri. Incorrect height leads to pain and discomfort during and after your ride. It can also prevent you from improving your performance on the bike. Learn the importance of correct saddle height, and how to adjust your bike to the perfect fit with these easy steps.

What is Saddle Height?

Saddle height is measured by the distance between the center of the pedal axle and the top of the saddle, or your bike seat. This is set by adjusting the seat post to your ideal height to balance your comfort and power on the bike. This height is arguably the single most important adjustment on your bicycle. Incorrect height can contribute to discomfort in the saddle, anterior and posterior knee pains, and ultimately limit how much power you produce.

How To Adjust Your Saddle Height

There are many ways you can approach finding your perfect saddle height. One of the best approaches is to establish it based on the rider’s individual ride characteristics and flexibility. You can follow the “heel to pedal method” before your next ride. This will get you in the ballpark.

  1. Stand next to your bike and raise the saddle to your hip to get an idea of where to start.
  2. Get on your bike, and place your heel on the pedal to determine if you will raise or lower your saddle.
    • If you are having trouble making contact with your heel to your pedal – the seat is too high.
    • If your knee is bent – it is too low.
  3. Put your bike on the trainer and adjust accordingly.
  4. Get back on your bike with your heel on the pedal and pedal backward to reach the six o’clock position.
  5. Your leg should be completely straight, without being overextended to achieve the correct saddle height.

Pro tip: Make very small adjustments during this process, then repeat until you have found the perfect height.

Ready to Ride

Once you find the proper height, use a piece of electrical tape around at the base of the post where it meets the seat clamp as a marker. Take a tape measure and record the measurements, in case you need to make very slight adjustments in the future.

Have a professional look at your bike every few years to achieve maximum comfort. After adjusting your bike to the perfect saddle height, make the first few rides short. Give it time!  Your body may need a few sessions to adapt to your new height before you feel yourself improving on your cycling journey. How often do you check your saddle height? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Understanding the Different Types of Bike Pedals

When it comes to choosing bike pedals, you need to consider the best option to meet your needs depending on the kind of riding you’ll be doing. It’s all about personal preference and what you feel most comfortable with. If you’re in the market for some new pedals, keep reading to understand the different types of bike pedals to figure out which ones are right for you.

Types of Pedals:

There are two basic types of bike pedals: Flat and Clipless. Flat pedals are the more common of the two when it comes to triathlon because you wear regular running shoes with this type of pedal. Which is great and convenient for the bike to run transition. Clipless pedals are great for athletes who want to feel more at one with the bike. With these pedals, you’ll need to wear special cleats that clip into the specific type of pedal system that’s compatible with your cleats.

Different Benefits:

Flat Pedals

There are many benefits of flat or platform pedals. Any type of shoe you decide on will work with this type of pedal. They’re great for a quicker bike-to-run transition because, without changing shoes, you eliminate the need to spend any more time in transition.

Flat pedals also reduce any anxiety you may have about falling over during the bike leg. You can put your feet down to catch yourself, as opposed to if you were clipped into the pedals. Lastly, this is the more common and affordable option of the two kinds of pedals. Flat pedals can be found for $10 – $40.

 

Clipless Pedals

There are also many benefits of a Clipless Pedal (clipless means clipped in). Increase your speed during the bike portion by being clipped into your bike pedals. This allows you to take full advantage of your pedal stroke, which in turn allows you to ride faster once you have mastered the push and pull of it.

A smoother more efficient pedal stroke will lead to better average power output. Being clipped in can actually keep you a little safer while riding because it reduces the chance of your foot slipping off the pedal while climbing, descending, or fatigued. There are endless options when it comes to choosing clipless pedals if that is the

You can go clipless right from the start or use flat pedals until you are more comfortable in the saddle. There are benefits to each type of pedal, but the important thing is to choose what is more comfortable for you. Whatever you choose, spend time becoming familiar with your bike pedals to maximize your efficiency on race morning of Kerrvile Tri!

Chain Skipping? This May Be the Reason

Learn what causes skipping chains and what you can do about it

There are two main causes for skipping chains. The most common cause is the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain itself. The second most common cause of skipping chains is wearing on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. Read below to see what causes each and how you can prevent chain skipping and extend the life of your bike.

 

There are several things that can cause the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain.

  • Improper cable tension. When the tension is incorrect the chain does not sit in line with the corresponding cassette cog and is trying to jump to the next cog. 
  • Dirty cable. The dirt prevents the cable from moving like it needs to. 
  • Slightly bent hanger for the rear derailleur. Can affect the alignment.

 

Skipping chains will wear on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. The chain is the most likely to wear out first since it is made entirely of small, moving parts. Those parts tend to wear out faster when they are dirty or ridden dry. Chains on most modern drivetrains usually last anywhere from 1500 to 2000 miles. This can change depending on your riding style and how well you maintain your bike. If you keep your drivetrain clean and you tend to spin at a slightly higher cadence then you will get more mileage out of your chain. Follow these six steps to clean your drivetrain.

 

When the chain wears, it no longer sits evenly on the cassette cogs and chainrings. As this goes on the chain will eventually start to jump since the chain wears much faster than the cassette and chainrings. If you let your chain go too long it will start to wear down the teeth of the cassette first and then the chainrings. If the chain is replaced before it is too worn the cassette and chainrings will outlast the chain many times over. You’d much rather want to replace your chain than the cassette and chainrings.

 

Pro tip: Use this bike tool to measure chain wear at home. 

 

What is a Bento Box and How to Use One

Learn what a bento box is and how you’ll enjoy longer bike rides with it

Cyclists need proper nutrition, especially on longer rides. A bento box is a lightweight and effective way to carry more nutrition for your long bike rides. Carrying a gel or a waffle in a jersey pocket is a good option for short to medium distances. But when you’re increasing your mileage, lack of nutrition can lead to fatigue. During longer training rides you want to carry enough fuel with you without affecting your balance. Before you begin any long rides, make sure your bike has had a proper tune-up.

Bento boxes have a minimalist design, won’t flap around in the wind, and aren’t too clunky. They’re also available in a variety of sizes. Some bikes have fittings designed to install bento boxes. However, most of them are affixed with Velcro straps to your bike frame. The ideal bento box should be small enough to not slow you down or impact your form. But you also want them to be large enough to carry everything you need. Are you ready to add a bento box to your bike? Check out three of our favorites below.

Zone3 Aero Top Tube

The shape of this Zone3 Top Tube allows you to carry what you need without overloading your bike. This bento box can be fitted to the top tube of your bike around the stem. It has loop straps and four hooks. It neatly fits the frame of your bike. You’ll have easy access to everything you need during your ride. This box can also store your phone, keys, or credit card. It’s manufactured from a waterproof material with a large waterproof zipper.

Apidura Top Tube Pack

Apidura is known for its ultralight equipment, like its Top Tube Pack. This box is made from tear-resistant, lightweight, and waterproof Hexalon material. This tough, durable pack is lightweight, weighing only 107 grams. It has dual mounting positions to suit different bikes. The flip-top lid has a magnetic closure making opening and closing very easy. In case your bike does not have top tube mounting points, Apidura provides Velcro straps to strap the pack to the top tube.

Oveja Negra Snack Pack XL

This bento box comes in lots of designs and colors. The Snack Pack remains stable in any road condition due to its wide Velcro top-tube strap. This bag has a large interior and a zipper which can be easily grasped even with gloved hands. The Bolt-On Snack Pack is available in different sizes and bolt-on styles. It weighs 3.6 ounces and is made in the USA.

Keep Working To Your Next Goal: Winter Running Events

“Comfort zones: If you live in one too long, that becomes your norm. Get comfortable being uncomfortable.” — David Goggins

If you’ve ever completed a triathlon, you already know what it means to break through your comfort zone. Not everyone can, or will accomplish that in their lifetimes. But when it comes to the off-season, it’s easy to fall into your couch and let the weeks fly by. This article will show you how making new goals during winter training can actually transform you.

 

Where Are You Headed?

So you’ve done a triathlon or more. You’re no stranger to discipline. You know what it means to endure long hours of training just to arrive at that final cathartic moment when you blaze past the finish line.

And now it’s off-season. Winter’s here. You can feel it in your bones. Your calendar’s filled with parties and other fun activities instead of training.

This is when the days grow shorter, and the ground becomes colder. None of these are ideal circumstances for training outdoors. So why not relax and let loose?

Here’s the thing.

You don’t suddenly transform into who you’re supposed to be on race day. You get there — slowly — by sculpting your body day-after-day, inch-by-inch. 

Everything you do before race day is what makes you who you are. In this sense, it’s arguably more important that you participate in winter training than at any other time. 

All else remaining equal, the athlete who doesn’t let themselves go during the off-season has a competitive edge over everyone else who does. 

And just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t train. While it’s not the most ideal time for breaking your past records, it is the best time to focus on maintenance, covering up weaknesses, and becoming injury-proof.

 

Enter The Half Marathon

Whatever goals you might have for the future, it’s a good idea to do half the distance of next season’s race in preparation. You don’t need to exceed a half-marathon.

Stay active, but reduce the length of all your training sessions. This is because you want to focus on recovery, overcoming injuries, and keeping your mind sharp. 

As long as you stick with a consistent regimen, you can always add or subtract volume later. But if you completely ignore winter training then it’ll take a long time for your body to return to its peak condition. You need to keep the engine running so you can jump into action whenever you need to.

Even if you can’t go outside, you can swim, bike, and run on a treadmill indoors. You can fix up imbalances, weaknesses, or take up yoga and strength training to explore new ground.

One of the best ways to experience a half-marathon is through the 3M Half marathon that’s held in Austin, Texas on January 23, 2022. This event features a course that’s 13.1 miles (21.08 km) long. It ends with a post-race party that’s filled with plenty of food trucks serving some of the best tacos and BBQ you’ll ever have. Make sure to sign up before race day to remain eligible.

Or, if you wait a little longer, you can enter the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K on February 20th. This course passes through some of the most iconic landmarks in Austin, and is close to some amazing hotels, restaurants, and shops that you can enjoy with your whole family.

Don’t think. Sign up now. Imagine crossing the finish line to a roaring crowd all over again. You’ll only ever regret the things you don’t do and never the things you’ve done.

 

How to Stay Motivated on the Indoor Trainer

Crush your rides on the indoor trainer and stay motivated with this advice

Indoor trainers are a great way to stay fit and on top of your training. You can catch up on your favorite show, keep an eye on the kids, or avoid cycling in inclement weather. Using your indoor trainer is a great way to avoid air pollutants and the dangers of traffic. Hop on your indoor trainer and keep working towards your goals and continue to track your progress. You can set your own pace and follow what’s on your training plan. Select the resistance levels and choose your mileage to mimic an outdoor ride. During unfriendly cycling weather, indoor trainers provide a great way to maintain your training schedule. The tips below will help you stay motivated when riding your indoor trainer.

Pro tip: train with what’s most optimal for you and your budget. Learn about the difference between trainers and rollers. The advice below can apply to both of them!

Set a goal for your ride

Whenever you swim, bike, or run during training you should have a goal set. Whether it’s time, distance, or level of difficulty, accomplishing a small goal will help with your larger goal. You should do this whether you’re cycling outdoors or using the indoor trainer. Target your ride, distance, intensity, and resistance levels to help you accomplish your goal.

Take a break

Breaks work wonders and can make your triathlon training session more engaging. Simply get off for a few minutes. You can stretch, hydrate, grab something to eat, and get back to riding. Your body will feel more refreshed after a quick break. A break from the indoor trainer can be just like stopping at a gas station on your long ride to refuel.

Listen to your favorite upbeat music

Let’s be real. Music helps improve our focus. Pick up the earbuds or headphones and switch on some adrenaline rush inducing tunes right away. Listening to music is much safer on your indoor trainer than the open roads. You should never listen to music when cycling on the roads. You need to listen to your surroundings and be completely aware of what’s going on. But if you’re on the indoor trainer, add these 5 songs to your playlist and crank it up!

Catch up on your favorite TV shows

You can multitask with ease. This is one of the distinctive benefits of using an indoor trainer. Busy schedule keeping you from the latest season of your favorite show? Turn it on during your workout and the miles will fly by. If your training calls for a longer ride, click play on one of these sports movies on Netflix. This way you don’t have to mess with changing the channel or choosing another episode on your long ride.

Virtually ride with others through an app

Ride with your friends on your indoor trainer with a cycling app like Zwift.

Training in the digital world has its perks, especially if you’re riding indoors. If you can’t ride outdoors, there are many apps that allow you to complete a tough workout or ride virtually with your friends. You can even cycle anywhere in the world! This is a great way to stay motivated and switch up your indoor trainer routine. If you plan to use the app Zwift, check out this helpful guideline to get started.

Reward yourself

Just like any training, make sure to reward yourself. This will help keep up your motivation. Rewards for crushing smaller goals should be the same whether you’re outdoors or not. Your big goal is rewarded by crossing the finish line. Make sure you reward those smaller goals to keep chasing the larger goal! You could book a massage or get take out from your favorite restaurant.

In the digital era, indoor training has become far more engaging than we can imagine. You can catch up on your favorite shows, ride anywhere in the world, or challenge your friends. You’re also able to mimic various elements of your training plan, including resistance, difficulty, and duration. This helps you maintain your training and stay on track. Make sure you reward yourself when you hit those smaller goals on your way to your bigger goal!

Why Triathletes Should Work on Bike Skills

Improve as a cyclist and ride as safely as possible when you master these bike skills

It is not “just riding a bike.” Everyday bike skills will not make you a better cyclist, but they can provide the foundation for you to improve. For triathletes, you can’t take advantage of speed if you don’t master certain bike skills like shifting gears and handling turns. In triathlon, every second matters. If you can get better at handling your bike, then you can potentially shave minutes off your time. Ride safely and improve as a cyclist when you master these bike skills. Pro tip: for added safety, memorize and follow the cycling rules of the road.

Practice these bike skills

Be energy efficient

Cyclist rides in an aero position, smiling at the camera, during the 2018 Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Riding in an aero position allows you to be more energy-efficient. Credit – Ed Sparks

When you ride fast, aerodynamics play against performance by way of air and wind resistance. Proper body positioning on the bike can reduce wind resistance and make you more energy efficient. The smaller you can make yourself on the bike, the less wind resistance. If you can continue to maximize your power output in this position, you’ll save more energy for the rest of the ride and the upcoming run. Pro tip: minimize the amount of time you’re sitting up and stay in the aero bar more to reduce wind resistance.

Shifting gears

The difference between a pro and an everyday cyclist is their ability to shift gears at the most appropriate time. This is a skill that most triathletes may take for granted.

Below are the three secrets in exploiting situations using gear shifting skills

  • Climbing: Don’t go to an easy gear directly. Shift gears in their sequence as the climb advances to maintain momentum and efficiency.
  • Change gear after accelerating: You know from experience that it is easier to rev a fast gear than a heavy gear. Increase the tempo of the gear to shift into a heavier gear to overtake or a similar maneuver.
  • Heavy gear: While riding with a group, change to a bigger gear for a steadier pace that saves energy.

Passing other cyclists

Cyclist takes the corner for the final turn before transition at the Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Get out as wide as you safely can when handling a corner. Credit – Ed Sparks

As a USAT-sanctioned event, Kerrville Triathlon abides by all of their rules. The passing rules should be followed on training rides too. 

  • Keep three lengths between the cyclist in front
  • Pass on the left, never the right
  • Complete within 15 seconds

Handling corners

Mastery over this skill can help you maintain as much speed as possible. Follow the below steps to maneuver corners like a pro.

  • Launch into a corner in an open curve
  • Hook the peak point of the bend
  • Get out as wide as you safely can
  • If you need to slow down, do it before entering the corner
  • Never apply brakes while in the bend

Hydrating

Cyclist rides during the rain with her hydration bottles visible during the Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Make sure you have plenty of hydration with you for longer rides. Credit – Ed Sparks

This is often the toughest skill to master for most cyclists. When practicing this, start off at a slower speed and build your way up. If your bottle is in a rack below you, get some speed and stop pedaling. As you coast, focus on your balance. With the hand you’re most comfortable with, reach down and grab your bottle. Maintain balance of the bike with the other hand. Drink and place the bottle back. Repeat as necessary until you become more familiar. Increase speed and add pedaling as this move becomes more natural. Pro tip: this blog further breaks down how to hydrate while you ride and highlights the best items for just that.

Fixing a flat

Don’t get caught stranded because of a flat tire. This information is valuable whether you’re racing or on a long training ride. To fix the flat tire of a bike, follow the below procedure. Make sure you’re prepared for anything and when you have these essential items in your saddlebag.

  • Remove the wheel from the bike and take out the tube
  • Closely inspect to find the puncture, check for embedded objects
  • Replace the tube with a spare or patch it up
  • Put everything back and continue riding

Set aside time every day to practice these bike skills. You will get better over time, especially as you become more familiar and comfortable with each skill. Before you know it, you’ll show others the tricks you come up with to make cycling easier for yourself.

Ensure Your Saddle Bag has these Essential Items

Saddle bag and essential items explained

It’s important to carry a saddle bag with you on all of your bike rides. You know this is true if you’ve ever had a flat tire or minor mechanical problem. A saddle bag is specifically designed to hang underneath your bicycle seat. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. Make sure yours fits comfortably on the back of your bike. Some people even have two different saddles bags, one for training rides and one for races. Check the links below to see some recommended items. Pro tip: follow the dos and don’ts of bike buying and make sure your saddle bag has what it needs.

At a minimum, it should have an inner tube, a patch kit, tire levers, and a bicycle-specific multi-tool in it. If you don’t know the size of your inner tube, check the sidewall of your tire. You could also ask your local bike shop what’s best for your bike. Pro tip: take care of your bike before issues arise with this helpful replacement timeline.

Fix a flat tire

Some cyclists carry a hand pump on their bike. If you don’t, it’s essential to have a CO2 cartridge and inflator. A flat tire can be fixed in less than five minutes. You can get back to riding if you have the tools and spare with you to fix it. Otherwise, you’ll be calling a friend for a ride or maybe calling in late to work if you’re mid-commute when the flat tire happens.

Other mechanical problems

A loose bolt could allow your handlebar to move or your seat to slip. Those two issues are an easy fix if your saddle bag has a bicycle-specific multi-tool. A broken chain is a less common occurrence. A chain tool is included in many multi-tools. It’s a necessity if your chain breaks while you’re out on a ride. You might want to consider carrying a “missing link” for any chain issues.

Learn how to change an inner tube or use a CO2 inflator. Talk to your mechanic or ask a friend to teach you how before your next long bike ride. Finally, you should always have a cell phone, some cash, and identification with you in case of an emergency. You don’t need to store those items in your saddle bag. The cash is useful on long bikes rides when you plan to stop at a gas station to refuel.

Bike Buying: the Dos and Don’ts

Follow these bike buying guidelines if you’re in the market

Buying a bike can be a massive undertaking. There are so many options, accessories, fits, shops, and questions. That’s where this bike buying advice can help! Follow these bike buying dos and don’ts to make sure you get the bike that’s just right for you. Our advice can simplify the process, whether this is your first bike or you’re upgrading. Pro tip: become familiar with the cycling rules of the road.

Dos 

Take the bike for a test ride

Many bike shops will allow you to take the bike out on an extended ride. So come prepared with clothes you can ride in.

Research bike types & have a clear goal for the bike 

There are different types of bikes and bike frame materials. Bikes that are specifically made for mountain biking are very different from traditional bikes. Aluminum and carbon fiber are the two most popular bike frame materials. There is no bike that does it all. Prioritize what is most important to you. 

Know what bike brands the store carries before you go 

Bike shops carry different types of brands. The city in which you live and the number of bike shops can determine what brands you have access to. Popular brands include Felt, Giant, Scott, Specialized, Trek, and Cervelo. Pro tip: whatever brand you get, learn how to refuel at a gas station during your long rides.

Talk to the staff and ask questions

TALK TO THE STAFF! Don’t be scared to talk to the folks in the shop, they are there to help. If you find that they go off on a tangent that you don’t follow just ask them to clarify. Many times they are just excited to talk about the bikes and are happy to share all of their knowledge. Getting to know them is also good. Having a relationship with the shop will be great when you come in to shop later or get service on your bike. 

Get the bike fitted to you

Bikes don’t come fit to you just off the rack. There are many things that can be adjusted to make the bike fit more comfortably and even optimize your performance on the bike. Things that can be adjusted include the stem of the bike, the seat post, the seat, crank arms, and more. While some shops include a basic fit with purchase, many times it costs extra since they bring in a professional to help. If the bike is something you are going to be putting a lot of hours on, it is totally worth the extra investment. Pro tip: learn how much of a difference an adjustment of a few millimeters can make with your saddle height.

Ask about any package deals or closeout specials

It’s not bad to ask if they offer any package deals on accessories. Many times they will give you a small discount on anything you buy at the time of the bike. Sometimes bike brands have closeout specials for last year’s bikes, as cars do. Pro tip: this blog breaks down the different hydration methods so you know what’s best for you.

Don’ts

Don’t test a bike at a shop, then buy online

Buying from a local shop is the start of a relationship. They are giving you their time and expertise, not just at the time of purchase but for years to come. 

Don’t ride just one bike

Be the Goldilocks of bike testing. If this is your first “real bike” take the time to test out different bikes. Different bike brands have different geometries that may fit your body better. 

Don’t settle for what’s in store

If all they have is the basic components model and you really wanted something nicer, don’t settle. See what they can do about getting the bike you want. If you don’t like the way a bike looks or it doesn’t fit quite right, don’t buy it just because you’re getting a great deal. There is not too much you can do about the color of bikes. Each year the model might be a different color. You can always see if there is an option to buy a previous or next year’s model. You can also have the bike custom painted if that is something that is important to you. 

Don’t skip on accessories

Get everything you need! Get lights, lock, bento box, water bottles, pedals, shoes, shorts, etc. Set yourself up for success so that you have everything you need to get out and ride. You don’t need the excuse of not having something to keep you from riding and enjoying your new bike. Plus, they may offer a discount on accessories at the time of purchase with your bike. 

Don’t buy and never return

Try and come back to the same bike shop for your future needs. They may even have a system that keeps track of your purchases so they are familiar with your needs. The mechanics at that shop will be most familiar with the brand and type of bike you purchased. You might just make some friends and new riding buddies.

How to: Hydrating While Cycling

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Follow our advice to get better at hydrating while cycling

If you’re new to cycling, one of the challenges to get accustomed to is knowing how to drink water while peddling. Just as there is skill needed to balance, ride curves, and pump uphills, technique is needed to hydrate without losing your balance and falling off your bike. Here are some tips for hydrating while cycling.

Use a squirt-top bottle instead of a cap bottle

A water bottle with a cap requires you to twist it open, which is cumbersome to do with one hand on a bike. When it comes to squirt-top bottles, you can simply use your teeth to open the valve and start drinking with one hand as you control your bike with the other. The convenience a squirt-top bottle offers during cycling allows you to focus on the course more and avoid any accident.

Make use of the bottle cage on your bike

To carry water on the road, you can use a bottle cage on your bike. The bottle cage can be installed between the bars, on the frame, or near the saddle to help you reach your drink with zero fuss. Here are the pros and cons of each bottle cage.

Aero Bottle Cage

This type of cage is designed so that it can be attached to multiple parts of the bike frame. Most other cages can only be mounted to the frame.

Pros
– easiest to access
– option to install it either vertical or horizontal
– using horizontal bottles at the front can decrease aerodynamic drag

Cons
– poor aerodynamics compared to other cages
– using vertical bottles can cause even higher aerodynamic drag.

Bike Frame Cage

These are very common bottle holders that can be placed on the frame, seat post, or handlebars.

Pros
– slim aero bottles on the down tube are less affected by drag and side wind.

Cons
– intermediate aerodynamic drag
– large frame-mounted bottles are expensive and difficult to clean.

Rear Hydration System

This is an aerodynamic bottle that is mounted behind the seat post. These are more so used by competitive triathletes partaking in very long distances.

Pros
– best choice in terms of aerodynamics
– least affected by side wind

Cons
– requires a cage with a strong grip to prevent bottle-launching
– must be made of a favorable material to oppose side sway

Take advantage of the straight-aways

Think about when the ideal time to take a sip is and be ready to do so. Trying to pull the water bottle out on curves is much more challenging, so wait until the trail is flat and straight to get your drink.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Ride up and down your street over and over and practice. Pull your water bottle out of the cage, take a sip, then put it back while moving forward. Start off slow and pick up speed as you get more comfortable.

Pro Tip: Avoid quenching your thirst in one go

Kerrville TriathlonExerting your body through exercise causes dehydration which makes you thirsty. Despite your desire to rapidly quench your thirst it’s important to not drink too much. It can be counterproductive and negatively affect your performance. It is best to avoid drinking mouthfuls and only take a few sips occasionally. You can hydrate yourself effectively without running the risk of drinking too much.

To make sure you do not run yourself dry, you should consume around 600-900 ml of water, per hour, during a triathlon, in addition to other nutritional needs. Although triathlons will have water available in transition and on the run course, not all triathlons provide an aid station on the bike course. Make sure the water bottle(s) on your bike are full so you don’t run out of water.

Hydrating while cycling can be tricky if you’re not used to it. With a secure bottle cage and lots of practice, you’ll be able to master this skill in no time.