Hey guys, I'm new here. I recently re-started road cycling after doing some track cycling in my teens. now I'm 27 and want to shape again.
I have a question regarding pedalling.physics dictates that only forces perpendular to the crank generate propulsion. cycling books (at least the ones not older than 20 years old) devide the stroke in 4 phases: the push down, pull back, lift up and kick forward phase. my track coaches told me that too and emphazises pedalling with "souplesse" and it makes a lot of sense because you use the full circle.
http://www.cycle-faster.com/pedaling-technique
however know I have read that several studies were done with real elite cyclists (I think persuiters) which showed that the generate little forces in the kick forward and paw back phase and even negative force (means they don't even lift their whole leg weight) in the lift phase.
can it be possible that elite riders have ineffitient strokes? what is the reason for that? or would even better athletes (say armstrong or indurain) have better pedalling?
I have a question regarding pedalling.physics dictates that only forces perpendular to the crank generate propulsion. cycling books (at least the ones not older than 20 years old) devide the stroke in 4 phases: the push down, pull back, lift up and kick forward phase. my track coaches told me that too and emphazises pedalling with "souplesse" and it makes a lot of sense because you use the full circle.
http://www.cycle-faster.com/pedaling-technique
however know I have read that several studies were done with real elite cyclists (I think persuiters) which showed that the generate little forces in the kick forward and paw back phase and even negative force (means they don't even lift their whole leg weight) in the lift phase.
can it be possible that elite riders have ineffitient strokes? what is the reason for that? or would even better athletes (say armstrong or indurain) have better pedalling?