Barry Baldwin spent 3 years as a machine operator in the mail room at Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City. He later worked for the New York City Transit Authority as a bus operator between 1987 and 2014. Now retired, Barry Baldwin enjoys staying fit by walking and riding his 10-speed bike.
The basics of shifting gears on a multi-speed bike are easy enough to pick up. That said, a few tips can facilitate an easy transition from a single-speed bike. To start, riders should be aware that shifting to a smaller chain ring on the front or to a larger cog on the rear wheel results in less resistance, effectively making pedaling easier. Making the opposite shifts will, of course, result in more resistance and more challenging pedaling. Shifting between front gears leads to more dramatic changes than the rear cogs, which are used to refine the level of resistance riders experience. While these basic principles are enough to get a cyclist started, it should be known that shifting is easier when riders anticipate a change in terrain, as opposed to reacting to it. For example, if a rider sees a steep incline up ahead, they should start shifting prior to the change in grade, rather than using the last of their momentum to get halfway up the hill and then making a change. In fact, shifting when there is too much pressure on the bike can result in damage. Similarly, riders can make multiple, rapid shifts while going downhill or over flat terrain, but should be more selective when shifting and climbing. As cyclists become more familiar with their gears and preferences, they should refrain from overcomplicating things and using both shifting dials at the same time. It is best to settle on a front wheel setting that feels comfortable and then refine this choice by finding the ideal rear wheel cog. Shifting too much at once can both damage the bike and prevent riders from settling into a comfortable riding pace.
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AuthorRetired NYC Transit Authority Bus Operator Barry Baldwin. ArchivesCategories |