HOW TO SIZE UP YOUR COMPETITION

THE BEST RIDERS ARE EASY TO PICK OUT FROM THE PACK.  You just have to know what you're looking for...

... and it's not their fancymatchy kit or unobtanium rig.

Nor is it a question of ectomorph vs endomorph.

Don't let pack position fool ya.

The confident knowitall bark ain't it either.

Chiseled muskulls?  Forget about 'em.

Sunglass arms over helmet straps?  Nope.

No gloves?  Gloves?

Elbows bent, hands relaxed yet secure?  Good guess...

Shaved legs? puuulllease...

It's the spin.

The spin, I tell ya!

The truly great riders have an unmistakable grace in their spin.

Easy.

Smooth.

Effortless.

Unchanged whether a recovery ride or a legripping charge.

They pedal in circles, meaning their is pressure on the pedals all the way around.  They press down.  The bottom of the stroke is like scraping mud off your shoe bottoms.  Pull up.  Forward across the top.  One continuous motion.  No dead spots.

A smooth pedal stroke is an indication of a well-trained athlete.  Someone who's not relying just on natural talents but who has put in the effort the learn proper pedaling technique to maximize their potential.  AKA, the kinda rider we all aspire to become.

Want to know if you have dead spots?

Go to a flat road.  Shift to a very easy gear.  Unclip one pedal.  If there is a point in your pedal stroke where you are pedaling air, that is a dead spot.

One legged drills are a great way to get rid of the dead spots and pedal like a pro.

Do these on your easy days... and remember, Every Day Is RaceDay™

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164.6
Walks
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4601756678